Is there a cure for severe altitude sickness?

In most cases, severe altitude sickness can be relieved if treated promptly and appropriately. However, delayed treatment or the development of serious complications may be life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if any abnormalities occur. Detailed analysis is as follows:

After the onset of severe altitude sickness, promptly transferring the patient to a lower altitude area and providing standardized treatments such as oxygen supplementation, fluid replacement, and medications to alleviate symptoms typically leads to gradual improvement. Most patients will experience symptom relief and progressive recovery of bodily functions without significant long-term sequelae, resulting in a favorable prognosis under these circumstances.

If a person with severe altitude sickness does not promptly descend to a lower altitude or receive effective treatment, serious complications such as pulmonary edema or cerebral edema may develop. These can lead to symptoms including difficulty breathing, confusion, and coma. In such cases, the condition may deteriorate rapidly, making treatment more difficult and significantly reducing survival rates, potentially resulting in death.

Prior to traveling to high-altitude areas, individuals should undergo proper physical evaluation and avoid ascending too quickly. If discomfort occurs, do not delay—immediately initiate emergency measures and seek hospital care to ensure timely treatment.