Inquiry

Mountain Sickness

Mountain Sickness Overview

Mountain sickness, also known as altitude sickness, occurs when individuals ascend to high altitudes too quickly, leading to a lack of oxygen (hypoxia). It typically occurs at elevations above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) and can range from mild to life-threatening.

Types of Mountain Sickness

  1. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) – Most common, mild to moderate symptoms.

  2. High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) – Fluid buildup in the lungs, a medical emergency.

  3. High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) – Swelling of the brain, life-threatening.

Symptoms

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

  • Headache (most common)

  • Nausea/vomiting

  • Dizziness

  • Fatigue

  • Shortness of breath

  • Difficulty sleeping

High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)

  • Severe shortness of breath (even at rest)

  • Cough (sometimes with pink, frothy sputum)

  • Chest tightness

  • Extreme fatigue

  • Blue-tinged lips/nails (cyanosis)

High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)

  • Severe headache (unrelieved by medication)

  • Confusion, disorientation

  • Loss of coordination (ataxia)

  • Hallucinations

  • Unconsciousness, coma (if untreated)

Causes & Risk Factors

  • Rapid ascent (not allowing time for acclimatization)

  • Higher altitudes (especially above 3,500m / 11,500ft)

  • Individual susceptibility (some people are more prone)

  • Physical exertion (overexertion increases risk)

  • Previous history of altitude sickness

  • Dehydration (worsens symptoms)

Prevention

✔ Gradual ascent (no more than 300–500m per day above 3,000m)
✔ Acclimatization (rest days every 3–4 days)
✔ Stay hydrated (drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol)
✔ Medications (acetazolamide/Diamox for prevention)
✔ Avoid overexertion (climb high, sleep low)
✔ Recognize early symptoms (descend if symptoms worsen)

Treatment

  • Mild AMS: Rest, hydration, painkillers (ibuprofen), stop ascent.

  • Moderate/Severe AMS: Descend immediately (at least 500m).

  • HAPE/HACE:

    • Emergency descent (most critical treatment)

    • Oxygen therapy (if available)

    • Medications (nifedipine for HAPE, dexamethasone for HACE)

    • Hyperbaric bag (portable altitude chamber)

When to Seek Help

  • Symptoms worsen despite rest/medication

  • Signs of HAPE or HACE (severe breathing issues, confusion)

  • Inability to walk straight (ataxia)