What Is Acute Mountain Sickness

By: EjazUlHaqBhat

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Acute mountain sickness (AMS) or altitude sickness occurs when a person experiences sudden changes in air pressure and low Oxygen

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It is caused by rapid climbing and less time for acclimatization to adjust to sudden changes

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The symptoms include headache, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, and fatigue

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It may even turn fatal if immediate medical care is not given

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There are three types of altitude sickness: Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the mildest form of altitude sickness

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High-altitude cerebral oedema (HACE) is a serious form of AMS, and High-altitude pulmonary oedema (HAPE) can quickly become life-threatening

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The best way to prevent AMS is to stop during a climb and get rest immediately. Acclimatising for a day is usually advised when one visits a high altitude region

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If you have more severe symptoms, you need to move to a lower altitude as soon as possible

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