Hikers Beware: Acute mountain sickness can be fatal
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) affects almost half of those older than 3000 m height, and can lead to life-threatening complications such as pulmonary or cerebral edema. A new study published in the Journal of Travel Medicine details a prospective study in the study site in the Himalayas, between July and October 2004 were examined in which the knowledge and practices concerning AMS among trekkers. Public interest in AMS is thought to have increased over the past 25 years. This change is partly due to exposure to media guides, trekking and the availability of the Internet.Despite these apparent changes, it is unclear whether there is a real growing awareness among those who actually climb to these altitudes, and if this awareness is accompanied by a decrease in the prevalence of
AMS. The study aimed to characterize the knowledge among high-altitude hikers on the symptoms, prevention and treatment of AMS, and to determine whether this knowledge translates into practice.92 percent had heard of AMS prior to their current trip. In general, awareness of AMS among trekkers was good, especially with regard to symptoms and treatment modalities. Nearly 90 percent of travelers were found to have a basic knowledge of the AMS, and to recognize the symptoms (headache, along with two or more of the following: fatigue, dizziness, nausea, insomnia). 72 percent know that the descent was the primary mode of treatment. However, a fundamental mode of treatment, oxygen is known that less than 10 percent of travelers.
47 percent of those surveyed suffered from
AMS and nearly 25 percent of respondents did not know that AMS could be prevented. In addition, 15 percent of respondents believe start at AMS over 4,000 m, by the threat of altitude between 3,000 m and 4,000 m. The implementation is to translate seemingly adequate knowledge of AMS into practical action is missing. The results show that there is room for improvement, and provide a challenge for members to travel for health Pages: [1] 2