Master the Wild: NOLS WFR Practice Bonanza 2025 – Be the Ultimate Wilderness Hero!

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) is a serious condition resulting from excessive fluid accumulation in the brain due to rapid ascent to high altitudes. One of the hallmark symptoms of HACE is ataxia, which refers to a lack of voluntary coordination of muscle movements. This symptom arises as the brain functions are impaired due to the swelling caused by HACE, affecting the individual's ability to maintain balance and coordinate movements effectively. Ataxia is often one of the more noticeable signs that indicate the progression of altitude sickness and the potential severity of the situation, as it can lead to a higher risk of falls and injury.

While dizziness, headache, and fatigue can be associated with altitude sickness, they are more general symptoms that can appear in various stages of altitude-related illnesses. Ataxia is specifically indicative of neurological involvement, which is critical in identifying HACE and necessitating immediate descent and medical intervention. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for wilderness responders to recognize serious altitude illnesses and act accordingly.