What is a common symptom of High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)?

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) is a severe form of altitude sickness characterized by swelling of the brain due to the reduced availability of oxygen at high elevations. A common symptom of HACE is ataxia, which refers to a lack of voluntary coordination of muscle movements. This can manifest as difficulty walking, problems with balance, and an inability to maintain a steady posture, indicating that the brain is not functioning properly due to swelling.

Ataxia serves as a critical indicator of worsening altitude sickness and signifies that immediate action is necessary, such as descending to lower altitudes and seeking medical attention. The presence of ataxia suggests significant changes in neurological function and the urgent need to address the condition effectively.

While severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath are also symptoms associated with altitude sickness, ataxia specifically aligns with HACE and highlights the seriousness of this condition.