Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a condition that can occur when individuals ascend to high altitudes too quickly. It is caused by the body's difficulty adjusting to lower oxygen levels and decreased air pressure at high elevations.
But can altitude sickness cause a fever? Read this article to get all the answers to your queries. This article will briefly discuss altitude sickness and ways to treat it.
Causes and Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
At higher heights, there is a sudden change in air pressure and oxygen levels, which causes altitude sickness. You can have symptoms if you travel to a high elevation without giving your body time to acclimate to reduced oxygen. Altitude sickness can still strike even if you're in good physical shape.
High altitude and low air pressure can also cause blood vessels to leak liquids. Researchers are still determining the precise cause of this.
Furthermore, the symptoms of altitude sickness range from mild to severe. Here are some of the common symptoms that are associated with altitude sickness. They are:
- Fatigue
- Loss of energy
- Dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Sleep issues
- Shortness of breath
How Can a Fever Develop From Being In High Altitudes?
Fever typically does not develop directly due to being in high altitudes. However, there are certain factors associated with high-altitude environments that can contribute to the development of fever:
Infection
When traveling to high altitudes, individuals may encounter new pathogens, or existing infections can worsen. In such cases, an infection can cause a fever.
Hypoxia and Inflammation
High altitudes have lower oxygen levels, and the body may struggle to adapt to these conditions. This inflammatory response can sometimes cause fever, although it is not a common symptom of altitude-related inflammation.
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)
In severe cases of altitude sickness, such as HAPE or HACE, fluid can accumulate in the lungs or brain due to the body's poor adaptation to high altitudes. While these conditions typically present with symptoms like shortness of breath, confusion, and difficulty walking, they can sometimes be accompanied by a fever.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Altitude sickness is primarily diagnosed based on characteristic symptoms and a history of recent ascent to high altitudes.
If you suspect altitude sickness, it is important to consult a healthcare professional experienced in high-altitude medicine for an accurate diagnosis.
You can try the following treatment option to get relief from altitude sickness. These options are:
- For instance, acetazolamide is one of the common medicines doctors prescribe. It helps to reduce symptoms and accelerate acclimatization.
- Oxygen therapy can also be used to reduce the symptoms and stabilize the body's oxygen levels.
- Make sure to take adequate rest and allow time for gradual acclimatization. This will help to reduce symptoms of altitude sickness.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Boulder For Same-Day Illness Care
Altitude sickness can cause severe discomfort and issues with breathing. However, some people experience fever along with other symptoms of it. Make sure to rest properly and allow the body to acclimate to new heights. If you need medical care, trust the medical team at AFC Urgent Care Boulder. Our medical providers can evaluate your condition and provide the best treatment so you can recover quickly. If you have any additional questions, please call our office directly at (720) 961-9700
