Altitude Mountain Sickness

Wat is AMS??
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a pathological effects of high altitude on humans (and animals), caused by acute exposure to low air pressure (usually outdoors at high altitutes). It commonly occurs above 2,400 metres (approximately 8,000 feet). The cause of altitude sickness is still not understood. It occurs in low atmospheric pressure conditions but not necessarily in low oxygen conditions at sea level pressure. Generally, different people have different susceptibilities to altitude sickness.

Wat are the signs n symptoms???
Headache
Lack of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
Fatigue or weakness
Dizziness or light-headedness
Insomnia
Pins and needles
Shortness of breath upon exertion
Persistent rapid pulse
Drowsiness
General malaise
Peripheral edema (swelling of hands, feet, and face).

Symptoms often manifest themselves six to ten hours after ascent and generally subside in one to two days, but they occasionally develop into the more serious conditions. Exertion often aggravates the symptoms.

Any prevention??
Avoid strenuous activity in the first 24 hours at altitude.
Altitude acclimatization – climb slow (may not be that applicable since mt K is quite low..).
Drugs - Acetazolamide may help some people to speed up the acclimatisation process when taken before arriving at altitude, and can treat mild cases of altitude sickness. A typical dose is 250 mg twice daily starting the day before moving to altitude.
Oxygen enrichment.
Other methods - Drinking plenty of water will also help in acclimatisation to replace the fluids lost through heavier breathing in the thin, dry air found at altitude, although consuming excessive quantities ("over-hydration") has no benefits and may lead to hyponatremia.

INFO SOURCE: WIKIPEDIA =)