Altitude Sickness/AMS

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a condition that occurs when hikers and backpackers ascend to high elevations too quickly for their bodies to properly acclimatize to reduced oxygen levels. Common symptoms include headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping, typically appearing at elevations above 8,000 feet. Prevention involves gradual ascent, proper hydration, and allowing time for acclimatization, while severe cases may require immediate descent to lower elevations. Understanding and recognizing AMS is crucial for safe high-altitude hiking and mountaineering activities.