Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly, usually above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters). At these heights, the air has less oxygen, which can lead to symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. The body struggles to adapt to the lower oxygen levels, causing discomfort. Severe cases can lead to serious conditions like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). To prevent altitude sickness, it’s important to ascend gradually, stay hydrated, and recognize early symptoms for timely intervention.
Additional Insights
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Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly, typically above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters). The reduced oxygen levels in thin air can lead to symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can progress to more dangerous forms like High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) and High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). To prevent altitude sickness, it's essential to acclimatize gradually, stay hydrated, and descend to lower altitudes if symptoms worsen.
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Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly, typically above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters). At these elevations, the air contains less oxygen, which can lead to symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. The body struggles to adapt to lower oxygen levels, which can affect how well you function. To minimize the risk, it's recommended to ascend gradually and stay hydrated. In severe cases, altitude sickness can progress to more dangerous conditions like high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high altitude cerebral edema (HACE), requiring immediate descent and medical attention.