Altitude Mountain Sickness AMS
AMS is diagnosed clinically based upon the appearance of typical symptoms in a person who lives at low altitude but has recently ascended to high altitude, generally over 6,561 ft. Montrose elevation is 5,807 ft, Telluride is 8,750 ft and Mt.Sneffels is 14,157 ft.
The onset of AMS is usually delayed for 6 to 12 hours following arrival at high altitude but can occur as rapidly as within one to two hours or as late as 24 hours. Symptoms are often most severe after the first night, generally resolve in one to two days if there is no further ascent, and do not recur at the same altitude.
Symptoms in adults resemble those of an alcohol hangover: primarily headache (which is often associated with fatigue), lightheadedness, anorexia, nausea and vomiting, and disturbed sleep with frequent awakening. Symptoms may be mild or severely debilitating.
AMS may reappear upon ascent to higher altitudes. On occasion, symptoms of AMS may persist for a week or more despite no further ascent.
Mild illness can be treated conservatively (avoid further ascent, limit activity) with symptomatic treatment (eg, analgesic, antiemetic) offered as needed. Patients with moderate to severe symptoms may require medication (eg, acetazolaminde, or dexamethasone), supplemental oxygen, or descent if medical resources are limited or absent.
Severe or worsening symptoms should prompt immediate descent.
Prep and Recovery at MIH
Montrose IV Hydration offers elevation preparation and recovery. Our goal is to keep you feeling great and out on the Mountain! In addition to a Liter of Normal Saline, you may choose to add Zofran, Toradol and Dexamethasone (certain medical diagnoses preclude the use of Dexamethasone). We also offer Oxygen therapy while you receive your IV cocktail.