Altitude Sickness

Altitude Sickness - also known as "acute mountain sickness" (AMS) or hypobaropathy - is a patholgical illness caused by high altitudes, commonly at heights greater than 8,000 feet. Presenting as a combination of nonspecific symptoms, it is often likened to flu or a hangover.

It is very difficult to determine who will be effected by altitude sickness as there are no specific factors that correlate with a susceptibility to the illness. It is, however, uncommon and most people will find they are capable of ascending to heights exceeding 8,000 feet without suffering any signs or symptoms.