SPECTRUM OF PRESENTATION OF ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS AT DIFFERENT ALTITUDES

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and the spectrum of clinical presentations in the troops/mountaineers who ascend to different altitudes. Study Design: Prospective case series. Place and Duration of Study: Study was conducted at Field Hospital Goma, from April to May 2012. Material and Methods: The study was carried out on 582 soldiers at 3330 meters (m), which were subsequently followed up on 4496 m and 5700 m. All participants were given Lake Louise Questionnaire to report symptoms. They were examined and any signs of AMS were registered. The frequency of AMS, spectrum of presentation and severity were noted. Results: Frequencies of development of AMS symptoms were 2.75% (3330 m), 7.4% (4496 m) and 16.7% (5700 m). The most common symptoms were headache, insomnia, fatigue, dizziness and gastrointestinal symptoms including nausea and vomiting. Conclusion: Overall, 8% people developed AMS. The severity of signs and symptoms increased with altitude.

Keywords

• acclimatization
• acute mountain sickness
• high altitude