How to Treat Altitude Illness

Whenever you rapidly increase your altitude, whether in a car, on a trail or while mountain climbing, you run the risk of getting altitude sickness. There are three types of altitude sickness, listed in order of increasing severity: acute mountain sickness (AMS), which is a physical intolerance to current altitude; high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), which involves fluid accumulation in the lungs; and high altitude cerebral edema (HACE), a swelling of the brain.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Oral Rehydration Salts
• Oxygen Masks
• Bottled Water
• Acetaminophen
• Ibuprofen
• Electrolyte Replacement Drinks

1. Treat AMS by resting and hydrating well (5 liters of fluid per day, or rehydrating salts or diluted sports drinks). Administer aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen to treat headaches. Also, don't ascend until symptoms disappear, and descend if symptoms do not improve in 24 to 48 hours, especially if symptoms take a turn for the worse.
2. Treat HAPE by immediately descending 2,000 feet to 4,000 feet, preferably while the victim can still travel under his or her own power. There is no substitute for descent. Also, keep victims warm, as they are vulnerable to hypothermia, and use oxygen, if available, using a snugly fitting face mask at a rate of 2 liters per minute for at least 15 minutes. Radio for help if possible, as HAPE is life-threatening.
3. Treat HACE by descending at least 2,000 feet to 4,000 feet (the more, the better). Again, there is no substitute for descent. Then, radio for help if possible, as HACE is life-threatening.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid alcohol, caffeine and smoking when recovering from altitude illness.
• If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, we recommend you contact a physician. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.