Altitude sickness is a medical condition that affects people who ascend to high altitudes too quickly without acclimatizing properly. It is caused by the low levels of oxygen at high altitudes, which can lead to a range of symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
If you are planning to travel to high-altitude destinations, it’s important to understand the three stages of altitude sickness so that you can recognize the symptoms and take appropriate action. In this beginner’s guide, we will explain the three stages of altitude sickness, the symptoms, and what you can do to prevent or treat it.
The First Stage: Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
The first stage of altitude sickness is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). It usually occurs above 8,000 feet or 2,400 meters, and it can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or fitness level. AMS is the most common form of altitude sickness and usually develops within the first 12-24 hours after ascending to high altitudes.
Symptoms of AMS can include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty sleeping
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to rest and give your body time to acclimatize. Drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can also help alleviate the symptoms.
The Second Stage: High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)
The second stage of altitude sickness is High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). It is a severe form of altitude sickness that affects the brain and can be life-threatening. HACE usually occurs at altitudes above 12,000 feet or 3,600 meters, and it can develop quickly, within a few hours.
Symptoms of HACE can include:
- Confusion
- Difficulty walking
- Severe headache
- Hallucinations
- Loss of consciousness
- Coma
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to descend to a lower altitude immediately. Oxygen therapy and medications such as dexamethasone can also be used to treat HACE.
The Third Stage: High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)
The third stage of altitude sickness is High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). It is a severe form of altitude sickness that affects the lungs and can also be life-threatening. HAPE usually occurs at altitudes above 8,000 feet or 2,400 meters and can develop within a few hours or a few days.
Symptoms of HAPE can include:
- Shortness of breath, even when resting
- Rapid breathing
- Coughing up pink, frothy sputum
- Chest tightness
- Blue or gray lips or fingernails
- Fatigue
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to descend to a lower altitude immediately. Oxygen therapy and medications such as nifedipine can also be used to treat HAPE.
Prevention is the Key
The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to acclimatize properly. This means ascending slowly, taking regular rest days, and staying hydrated. It’s also important to avoid alcohol and caffeine and to eat a high-carbohydrate diet.
If you are traveling to high-altitude destinations, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about medications such as acetazolamide that can help prevent altitude sickness.
Who is at Risk?
Anyone can develop altitude sickness, regardless of age, gender, or fitness level. However, some people are at a higher risk than others. People who live at low altitudes and ascend to high altitudes quickly are more likely to develop altitude sickness. Other factors that can increase the risk of altitude sickness include:
- Rapid ascent
- High altitude
- Dehydration
- Obesity
- Chronic medical conditions such as heart or lung disease
If you have any of these risk factors, it’s important to take extra precautions when traveling to high-altitude destinations.
Related: The Best Supplements To Help You Prepare For High Altitude
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does it take to acclimatize to high altitude?
It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to acclimatize to high altitude, depending on the altitude and the individual. It’s important to ascend slowly, take regular rest days, and stay hydrated to help your body acclimatize.
Q: Can I take medication to prevent altitude sickness?
Yes, medications such as acetazolamide can help prevent altitude sickness. Talk to your doctor before traveling to high-altitude destinations to discuss the best prevention strategies for you.
Q: Can I continue my ascent if I have mild symptoms of AMS?
It’s important to take mild symptoms of AMS seriously and to rest until the symptoms improve. Continuing to ascend with mild symptoms can lead to more severe forms of altitude sickness, such as HACE or HAPE.
Q: How can I tell the difference between AMS and HACE?
AMS and HACE have similar symptoms, but HACE is more severe and can include confusion, difficulty walking, and loss of consciousness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to descend to a lower altitude immediately.
Q: Can children get altitude sickness?
Yes, children can develop altitude sickness. It’s important to take extra precautions when traveling with children to high-altitude destinations and to be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Q: Is it safe to fly after experiencing altitude sickness?
It’s generally safe to fly after experiencing altitude sickness, but it’s important to wait until all symptoms have resolved before flying. In some cases, flying can worsen the symptoms of altitude sickness, so it’s important to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider.
Q: How can I prevent altitude sickness while hiking?
The best way to prevent altitude sickness while hiking is to ascend slowly, take regular rest days, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, it’s important to rest and descend to a lower altitude.
Q: Can altitude sickness be fatal?
Yes, altitude sickness can be fatal if left untreated or if it progresses to more severe forms such as HACE or HAPE. It’s important to take symptoms of altitude sickness seriously and to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve with rest.
Q: How can I prepare for a high-altitude trip?
To prepare for a high-altitude trip, it’s important to:
- Ascend slowly and take regular rest days
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine
- Pack warm clothing and appropriate gear
- Talk to your doctor about medications or other prevention strategies
- Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and how to respond if symptoms occur.
Altitude sickness is a serious condition that can occur when traveling to high-altitude destinations. By understanding the stages of altitude sickness and taking precautions to prevent and treat symptoms, you can enjoy your high-altitude adventure safely and comfortably.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, altitude sickness is a common condition that can occur when traveling to high-altitude destinations. It’s important to understand the three stages of altitude sickness – AMS, HACE, and HAPE – and to take precautions to prevent and treat symptoms.
Ascending slowly, staying hydrated, and taking rest days are all important strategies for acclimatizing to high altitudes. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, it’s important to rest and descend to a lower altitude. By taking these steps, you can safely enjoy your high-altitude adventure and avoid the more severe forms of altitude sickness.
Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before traveling to high-altitude destinations, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or other risk factors.