Acute mountain sickness

Acute Mountain Sickness

Acute mountain sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness, is a pathological effect of high altitude on humans, caused by acute exposure to low partial pressure of oxygen at high altitude. It commonly occurs above 2,500 meters (approximately 8,200 feet).

Pronunciation

Acute mountain sickness is pronounced as /əˈkjuːt ˈmaʊntɪn ˈsɪknɪs/.

Etymology

The term "acute mountain sickness" is derived from the Latin word "acutus" meaning sharp or pointed, the Latin word "mons" meaning mountain, and the Old English word "sēocnes" meaning illness or infirmity.

Symptoms

Symptoms of acute mountain sickness include headache, fatigue, stomach illness, dizziness, and sleep disturbance. These symptoms tend to appear within hours after arrival at high altitude and typically resolve within days after ascent to a given altitude.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention and treatment options for acute mountain sickness include acclimatization, acetazolamide (Diamox), dexamethasone, and descent to lower altitudes.

Related Terms

• Altitude sickness
• High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)
• High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)
• Hypoxia (medical)
• Acclimatization
• Diamox
• Dexamethasone

See Also

• Altitude training
• Effects of high altitude on humans
• Oxygen saturation

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