What is the best treatment for high altitude pulmonary edema?
The treatment of high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) includes rest, administration of oxygen (first line), and descent to a lower altitude (first line if oxygen is unavailable). If diagnosed early, recovery is rapid with a descent of only 500-1000 m.
What does dexamethasone do at high altitude?
Dexamethasone is effective for preventing and treating AMS and HACE and prevents HAPE as well. Unlike acetazolamide, if the drug is discontinued at elevation before acclimatization, mild rebound can occur.
Do steroids help with pulmonary edema?
Corticosteroids prevent hemodynamics and partially prevent biological changes in neurogenic pulmonary edema.
How does Dex help pulmonary edema?
Glucocorticosteroids such as dexamethasone probably increase exercise capacity through several different mechanisms. They lower pulmonary artery pressure by enhancing nitric oxide availability, as well as stimulating alveolar sodium and water clearance, which may improve oxygen diffusion.
Is dexamethasone used for altitude sickness?
Conclusions: The review indicates that dexamethasone is an effective prevention and treatment intervention for high-altitude illness. Commonly used dosages of either 2 mg every 6 hours or 4 mg every 12 hours can prevent high-altitude illnesses in adults.
How is HAPE HACE treated?
To treat HACE, you might need a steroid called dexamethasone. If you have HAPE, you will need supplemental oxygen and may need medications, as well as moving to a lower altitude.
How does dexamethasone treat altitude sickness?
Dexamethasone – Dexamethasone is a steroid that can reduce symptoms of AMS. You can take dexamethasone with acetazolamide, if needed. Dexamethasone increases blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. When to seek help — AMS symptoms should improve as you adjust to the altitude, usually within 24 to 48 hours.
Is pulmonary edema permanent?
Acute pulmonary edema is always a medical emergency and can be fatal. Chronic pulmonary edema, which is often seen with heart failure, tends to cause symptoms that wax and wane over time, as more or fewer alveoli are affected.
Does HAPE go away on its own?
The most common cause of death related to high altitude, HAPE is completely and easily reversed if recognized early and treated properly. HAPE is a non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema which occurs in two forms.