High altitude cerebral edema
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2008-05-20T00:04:15Z
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{{DiseaseDisorder infobox |
Name = High altitude cerebral edema |
ICD10 = |
ICD9 = {{ICD9|993.2}} |
}}
'''High altitude cerebral edema''' (or '''HACE''') is a severe (frequently fatal) form of [[altitude sickness]]. HACE is the result of swelling of brain tissue from fluid leakage. Symptoms can include headache, loss of coordination ([[ataxia]]), weakness, and decreasing levels of consciousness including disorientation, loss of memory, hallucinations, irrational behavior, and coma.<ref>{{cite web | author=AAR Thompson | title=Altitude facts| url=http://www.altitude.org/altitude_sickness.htm| publisher=Apex (Altitude Physiology Expeditions) | accessdate=2007-03-06}}</ref> It generally occurs after a week or more at [[high altitude]], but symptoms of mild HACE can sometimes show up even after few hours at higher altitudes. Severe instances can lead to death if not treated quickly. Immediate descent is a necessary life-saving measure (2,000 - 4,000 feet). There are some medications (e.g. [[dexamethasone]]) that may be prescribed for treatment in the field, but these require proper medical training in their use. Anyone suffering from HACE must be evacuated to a medical facility for proper follow-up treatment. A [[Gamow bag]] can sometimes be used to stabilize the sufferer before transport or descending.
==See also==
*[[Altitude sickness]]
*[[High altitude pulmonary edema]] (HAPE)
*[[High altitude flatus expulsion]] (HAFE)
==References==
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[[Category:Cerebrum]]
[[Category:Mountaineering]]
[[cs:Vysokohorský otok mozku]]
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