High altitude cerebral edema

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High altitude cerebral edema Classification and external resources
ICD-9	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.^[1] 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 (600 - 1,200 meters (2,000 - 4,000 feet)). Medication exists (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.

[edit] See also

• Altitude sickness
• High altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE)
• High altitude flatus expulsion (HAFE)

[edit] References