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Treatment must be prompt and the patient gotten to a lower altitude as quickly as possible. Oxygen if available should be given by mask. Antibiotics are indicated as the diagnosis can not readily be distinguished from a pneumonia and secondary infection can be controlled. Other drugs and methods of treatment are best reserved for the discretion of a physician. In general, mountaineers should be aware of this condi- tion and adequate time should be taken in gradual ascent to allow the process of acclimatization to occur. The possibility of one of these problems occurring depends basically on the general condition of the individual prior to his participation on an outing. Preliminary conditioning should be taken seriously in order to prevent extreme exhaustion which may otherwise occur. Any preliminary respiratory infection should contraindicate participation in any extended mountaineering adventure. Routine physical examinations are advised and in this way serious problems may be avoided. Sufficient rest, even if the common sleeping capsules are needed, and adequate fluids, amounting to at least six pints a day, are two very important measures for good health. Needless to say, for these serious problems prevention is easier than treatment, which for all practical purposes is transportation to medical care. |
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