0 mg., but their research shows no difference with the lower dose (Princeton, 1995). Possible side effects include tingling of the lips and finger tips, blurring of vision, and alteration of taste. These side effects may be reduced with the 125 mg. dose. Side effects subside when the drug is stopped. Diamox is a sulfonamide drug, so people who are allergic to sulfa drugs such as penicillin should not take Diamox. Diamox has also been known to cause severe allergic reactions to people with no previous history of Diamox or sulfa allergies. A trial course of the drug is usually conducted before going to a remote location where a severe allergic reaction could prove difficult to treat. Some recent data suggests that the medication Dexamethasone may have some effect in reducing the risk of mountain sickness when used in combination with Diamox (University of Iowa, 1995). Moderate AMS requires advanced medications or immediate descent to reverse the problem. Descending even a few hundred feet may help and definite improvement will be seen in descents of 1,000-2,000 feet. Twenty-four hours at the lower altitude will result in significant improvements. The person should remain at lower altitude until symptoms have subsided (up to 3 days). At this point, the person has become acclimatized to that altitude and can begin ascending again. Severe AMS requires immediate descent to lower altitudes (2,000 - 4,000 feet). Supplemental oxygen may be helpful in reducing the effects of altitude sicknesses but does not overcome all the difficulties that may result from the lowered barometric pressure. GAMOW BAG This invention has revolutionized field treatment of high altitude illnesses. The Gamow bag is basically a portable sealed chamber with a pump. The principle of operation is identical to the hyperbaric chambers used in deep sea diving. The person is placed inside the bag and it is inflated. Pumping the bag full of air effectively...
