Acute mountain sickness
Alternative names:
altitude anoxia; altitude sickness; high altitude cerebral
edema; high altitude pulmonary edema; mountain sickness
Prevention:
Education of mountain travelers before ascent is the key
to prevention. Basic principles include: gradual ascent, stopping
for a day or two of rest for each 2,000 feet (600 meters)
above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters); sleeping at a lower altitude
when possible; attaining optimal physical conditioning before
ascent; and learning how to recognize early symptoms so the
party can return to lower altitude before worsening symptoms
occur.
Mountaineering parties traveling above 9,840 feet (3,000 meters)
should carry an oxygen supply sufficient for several days.
Acetazolamide (Diamox) may be given as a preventive medication,
but therapy must be started before ascent to altitude. Do
not consume alcoholic beverages while taking Diamox.
People with underlying cardiac or pulmonary (lung) diseases
should avoid high altitudes.
Update Date: 10/08/99
Updated by: adam.com editorial
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