The most amazing sceneries are found in the highlands and mountain ranges, no wonder many nature lovers even risk their lives to have a look of these awe-inspiring sceneries. Who could resist the magnificence of Drei Giffel in Alpine Mountains and Himalaya’s Mount K2, or wouldn’t drop a jaw upon getting a glimpse of Mount Alpamayo’s splendor? And when up on top of any of these, none would probably ever regret that they actually took such a risky adventure. The sceneries from the top of mountains are just priceless, and being able to see the grand masterpieces of nature will prove to be among the most unforgettable experiences.
Witnessing the grandest designs on Earth is never easy, though. The most longed sceneries come with great risks. Besides unpredictable situations, high altitudes can be deadly. In the Himalayas, where Mt. Everest is found, many have died already, and high altitude could be one of the reasons. The official altitude of the world’s highest peak is 29,029 feet above sea level, but could be higher by 6 feet. Climbing the highest summit of Mt. Everest fast is inviting, but at about 8000 feet, mild symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS can already be felt by mountaineers.
WHAT IS ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS?
AMS, also known as high altitude cerebral edema, is the body’s natural response to the scant oxygen supply in high altitudes. When a person is in such a place, barometric air pressure decreases and the lungs absorb less oxygen. The condition affects human body’s most vital organs, the lungs, heart, muscles, and nervous system upon reaching high elevation until about four days. Its best solution is to climb down. Otherwise, it could lead to death due to respiratory distress or brain swelling. Cerebral edema or brain swelling, pulmonary edema, and or coma are possible complications when preventive treatment is not administered on time.
A person can suffer from mild or severe AMS, depending on the altitude, speed of ascend, and overexerting before acclimatizing. During this period, fluids may accumulate in the lungs and or around the brain. When a mountain climber starts suffering from difficulty of sleeping, dizziness, fatigue, headache and loss of appetite, he is experiencing AMS symptoms that are mild to moderate. He can also experience nausea, rapid heart beat and shortness of breath. And when congestion, coughing up blood, gray or pale complexion, and inability to walk in a straight line or to walk at all, he is already suffering from severe AMS. Congestion, confusion, decreased consciousness and shortness of breath at rest also tells that AMS is severe, and immediate medical attention is needed.
To prevent AMS, individuals with respiratory ailment or anemia must avoid high altitudes. For medications, people in nursing uniforms and lab coats or your physician could best provide. As much as possible, do not travel alone. Extra oxygen must also be handy. And of course, never shun any symptoms of AMS.
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