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Climbing up a mountain can be an exhilarating experience, but it can also come with health risks. Altitude sickness is a common concern for those who are venturing to high altitudes, and it’s important to know how to recognize the symptoms and what you can do about them. This blog post will discuss how long altitude sickness typically lasts.
How to Recognize Acute Mountain Sickness
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is the mildest form of altitude sickness. It usually occurs within 12 to 24 hours after you reach an elevation higher than 2,000 meters and can last for up to two days. Symptoms of AMS can include a headache, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping. If left untreated, more severe forms of altitude sickness can develop.
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) is the most severe form of altitude sickness and occurs when fluid builds up in the lungs. This can cause difficulty breathing, a dry cough, rapid pulse, and extreme fatigue.
If left untreated, HAPE can be fatal. Symptoms usually appear within two to four days of reaching a high altitude. Treatment for HAPE includes descending to a lower altitude as soon as possible, administering oxygen therapy, and taking medication to reduce fluid buildup in the lungs.
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) is a severe and potentially life-threatening altitude sickness affecting the brain. Symptoms include confusion, difficulty walking, and changes in mental status and behavior.
HACE is most common above 8,000 feet and can develop quickly. If left untreated, HACE can be fatal. Treatment involves immediate descent to a lower altitude, oxygen therapy, and medications such as acetazolamide, dexamethasone, and nifedipine. Seek medical help if you experience symptoms of HACE.
If you experience these symptoms at high altitudes, you must descend immediately and seek medical help. If left untreated, these forms of altitude sickness can be fatal.
What Should I Do if I Develop Symptoms of Altitude Sickness?
If you begin to experience symptoms of altitude sickness, the first step is to rest and avoid further ascent. Make sure you are well-hydrated and have a balanced diet to help combat the effects. If your symptoms are mild and you do not feel too ill, you can try to stay at the same altitude until the symptoms improve.
If your symptoms are more severe or do not improve after a day or two, then you must descend to a lower elevation as soon as possible. You should not ascend more than 500 meters per day and, in some cases, even less. You must seek medical attention if you experience any severe symptoms or if your symptoms do not improve when descending to a lower altitude.
How Long Does It Take For Acute Mountain Sickness to Go Away?
Acute mountain sickness is the mildest form of altitude sickness and usually resolves on its own within one to two days. Symptoms of acute mountain sickness include headache, fatigue, lightheadedness, nausea, and difficulty sleeping.
The best way to treat acute mountain sickness is to rest at a lower altitude. Descend to a level at least 1,000 to 2,000 feet lower than where you last felt well, and take it easy for a day or two. If symptoms persist after 24 hours, then it is advised that you seek medical attention.
Is There Any Way to Shorten the Duration of Altitude Illnesses?
Altitude sickness is a serious condition that can have serious consequences if not treated properly. Fortunately, there are ways to shorten its duration. The main treatment for altitude sickness is to move to a lower altitude as soon as possible. If you are climbing and not descending, your symptoms can worsen and even be deadly.
Descending to a lower elevation can reduce the duration of your symptoms in most cases. In addition, drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol and smoking, getting enough rest, and avoiding strenuous activity can help reduce the duration of your symptoms. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), you should seek medical help immediately.
When Should I Seek Medical Help for Altitude Illnesses?
If you experience altitude sickness symptoms, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Symptoms of severe altitude sickness, such as high altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), can be life-threatening, and early intervention is critical.
If you are climbing and experiencing symptoms that do not improve with rest, or if your symptoms worsen, you should immediately seek medical help. Additionally, if your symptoms persist after two to three days at a lower altitude, it is also important to seek medical attention.
Are Any Long-Term Effects from Severe Cases of Acute Mountain Sickness or High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)?
While mild cases of altitude sickness can be resolved quickly, severe cases can have long-term effects. In the case of high-altitude pulmonary edema, the swelling and buildup of fluid in the lungs can lead to permanent damage, including impaired lung function and even death.
In very severe cases of acute mountain sickness, there can also be long-term damage to the brain, ranging from an inability to think clearly to more serious conditions such as memory loss and impaired motor skills. It is important to seek medical help immediately if any of these symptoms are present.
What are Some Tips for Travelers Returning From High altitudes to Lower altitudes?
When returning from high to lower altitudes, there are a few tips to keep in mind. It’s important to descend gradually and not too quickly; doing so can help reduce the chances of developing altitude sickness.
Additionally, rest is key when returning from high altitudes, as it gives the body time to adjust. It’s also important to stay hydrated, as dehydration can contribute to the development of altitude sickness. Lastly, if you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as shortness of breath, headaches, nausea, or fatigue, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
Altitude sickness can be a serious medical condition, so it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of acute mountain sickness and to avoid the situation by acclimatizing safely. If you are climbing to higher altitudes, be sure to give yourself plenty of time for rest and for your body to adjust.
If symptoms worsen or do not improve after two to three days rest, seek out professional medical help. It is also important to remember that descent is the first aid treatment for acute mountain sickness, HAPE, and HACE. Oxygen therapy is also used in more severe cases.
