increases the concentration of oxygen molecules and therefore simulates a descent to lower altitude. In as little as 10 minutes the bag creates an atmosphere that corresponds to that at 3,000 - 5,000 feet lower. After 1-2 hours in the bag, the person's body chemistry will have reset to the lower altitude. This lasts for up to 12 hours outside of the bag which should be enough time to travel to a lower altitude and allow for further acclimatization. The bag and pump weigh about 14 pounds and are now carried on most major high altitude expeditions. The gamow bag is particularly important where the possibility of immediate descent is not feasible. OTHER ALTITUDE-INDUCED ILLNESS There are two other severe forms of altitude illness. Both of these happen less frequently, especially to those who are properly acclimatized. When they do occur, it is usually the result of an increase in elevation that is too rapid for the body to adjust properly. For reasons not entirely understood, the lack of oxygen and reduced pressure often results in leakage of fluid through the capillary walls into either the lungs or the brain. Continuing to higher altitudes without proper acclimatization can lead to potentially serious, even life-threatening illnesses. HIGH ALTITUDE PULMONARY EDEMA (HAPE) High altitude pulmonary edema results from fluid buildup in the lungs. The fluid in the lungs interferes with effective oxygen exchange. As the condition becomes more severe, the level of oxygen in the bloodstream decreases, and this can lead to cyanosis, impaired cerebral function, and death. Symptoms include shortness of breath even at rest, tightness in the chest, marked fatigue, a feeling of impending suffocation at night, weakness, and a persistent productive cough bringing up white, watery, or frothy fluid (University of Iowa, 1995.). Confusion, and irrational behavior are signs that insufficient oxygen is reaching the brain. One of the metho...
