Essence of time in high altitude pulmonary edema – A case report

Abstract

High-altitude sickness can present with numerous symptoms ranging from headache, blurring of vision, dyspnea on exertion to more critical events such as pulmonary edema and cerebral edema. Rapid ascent, high altitudes of >2500 m, and previous lung disorders are the predisposing factors. Rapid and aggressive management forms the core treatment. Mechanical ventilation should be instituted at the earliest to prevent fatal consequences. Most of the cases are managed at medical centers at high altitudes only. Utmost coordination is required between centers for rapid management. Here, we report a case which was referred to our institute located at foothills with high-altitude pulmonary edema for intensive management.