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Understanding the Dangers of High-Altitude Sickness: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
High-altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a serious condition that occurs when the body struggles to adjust to the lower oxygen levels at high altitudes, typically above 2,500 meters. It can cause symptoms like headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. Rapid ascent without proper acclimatization, previous AMS episodes, and underlying health conditions increase the risk. If untreated, it can lead to severe complications such as high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), both of which are life-threatening. Preventive measures include gradual ascent, staying hydrated, and using medications if needed, while the most effective treatment is immediate descent to lower altitudes. Understanding these dangers is crucial for ensuring safety during high-altitude travel.