Altitude Medicine
What is the most common altitude illness?
Acute mountain sickness (AMS)
AMS is by far the most common altitude illness, affecting up to 70% of individuals depending on ascent rate.
Which heat-related illness is characterized by collapse due to venous pooling?
Heat syncope
heat syncope results from vasodilation and venous pooling, often after exertion.
What is the most effective treatment for severe AMS?
Descent
Descent is always the definitive and most effective treatment.
What drug is used for prevention of AMS?
Acetazolamide
Acetazolamide increases ventilation by inducing metabolic acidosis, aiding acclimatization.
What mechanism underlies high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE)?
Vasogenic Cerebral Edema
Hypoxia leads to vasodilation and increased permeability of cerebral vessels, causing edema.
True or False
Fitness prevents acute mountain sickness
False (cardiorespiratory fitness does not prevent AMS)