What are the symptoms of acute mountain sickness?

Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a condition that can occur when individuals ascend to high altitudes too quickly, and its symptoms are primarily related to the body’s response to reduced oxygen levels. The chosen answer correctly identifies a range of symptoms that are commonly associated with AMS.

Headache is often the earliest and most prominent symptom. As the body struggles to adapt to decreased oxygen availability, it may cause vasodilation of cranial blood vessels, resulting in pain. A rapid pulse occurs as the heart works harder to circulate blood and deliver oxygen to tissues. Nausea and loss of appetite are also significant indicators of AMS, as the body can react negatively to the stress of altitude. Inability to sleep is another symptom that reflects how the body’s systems are disrupted, making it difficult to find restful sleep in higher elevations.

This combination of symptoms is critical for recognizing AMS and differentiating it from other conditions, as altitude can lead to even more severe complications if not addressed promptly. The other options describe symptoms that may be related to different conditions or injuries, rather than the specific set of symptoms associated with acute mountain sickness.