Mountain Sickness (cont.)

Altitude Sickness Symptoms

Acute altitude sickness may be associated with any combination of the following symptoms:

• Fatigue
  
  
• Headache
  
  
• Dizziness
  
  
• Insomnia
  
  
• Shortness of breath during exertion
  
  
• Nausea
  
  
• Decreased appetite
  
  
• Swelling of extremities
  
  
• Social withdrawal

People with acute altitude sickness often attribute their symptoms to other causes such as an uncomfortable bed, bad food, or a hangover. However, it is important to recognize that these symptoms may indicate a high altitude illness.

High altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), an advanced form of acute altitude sickness, causes the following progression of symptoms:

• Shortness of breath at rest
  
  
• Gurgling respirations
  
  
• Wet cough with frothy sputum
  
  
• Possible fever
  
  
• Respiratory failure

Onset of HAPE can be gradual or sudden. HAPE typically occurs after more than 1 day spent at high altitude.

High altitude cerebral edema (HACE) can begin with confusion.

• A person developing HACE begins having trouble keeping up with the group.
  
  
• Next, walking and coordination become impaired.
  
  
• As the brain continues to swell, lethargy and then coma will develop.

• If left untreated, HACE will ultimately result in death.

Next: When to Seek Medical Care »

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