noun a type of altitude sickness that can occur when a person quickly ascends to a high altitude
adjective describing the severity or intensity of the mountain sickness
Acute mountain sickness is a medical condition that occurs at high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet, due to reduced oxygen levels. Symptoms include headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty sleeping.
In emergency medicine, healthcare providers may encounter cases of severe acute mountain sickness requiring immediate treatment to prevent life-threatening complications like high altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).
Acute mountain sickness is a common concern for climbers and trekkers ascending to high altitudes. It is important to acclimatize properly and recognize the symptoms to prevent severe complications.
Travelers visiting high-altitude destinations should be aware of acute mountain sickness and take precautions to minimize the risk, such as gradual ascent and proper hydration.
Doctors in emergency medicine or high-altitude medicine may diagnose and treat acute mountain sickness in patients who have recently ascended to high altitudes.
Mountaineering guides may be trained to recognize the symptoms of acute mountain sickness in their clients and provide guidance on how to prevent or manage it while at high altitudes.
Researchers studying high-altitude physiology or environmental medicine may conduct studies on acute mountain sickness to better understand its causes and develop more effective prevention or treatment strategies.
Travel nurses working in mountainous regions may educate travelers on the symptoms of acute mountain sickness and provide advice on how to acclimatize properly to prevent its onset.
Emergency medical technicians responding to calls for assistance at high altitudes may encounter individuals suffering from acute mountain sickness and provide initial treatment before transporting them to a medical facility for further care.