In 1991, an International Hypoxia Symposium was held at Lake
Louise in Alberta Canada. The following diagnostic definitions
were determined.
Acute Mountain
Sickness (AMS) is characterized by:
Appetite
loss, nausea or vomiting
Fatigue
and/or weakness
Light
headedness
Dizziness
Insomnia
Confusion
Altered
Gait
There are a number of ways to
avoid acute mountain illness:
Spend a day at a lower altitude before proceeding
to your higher destination.
Sleep at a lower altitude
Avoid alcohol and caffeine
Stay hydrated
Avoid sleeping pills
Avoid narcotic pain medications
Use caution when gaining altitude
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of AMS, descent is crucial! Failure to do
so can result in a more serious case of acute mountain sickness.
High Altitude
Cerebral Edema (HACE) occurs when AMS
is not treated. The fluid build up causes the brain to swell. This causes
extreme disorientation and lack of coordination. At this point, delaying
descent can be fatal!
High Altitude
Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) is the most severe form of AMS. Its symptoms include: