HACO (HACE) and HAPO (HAPE)

Poor Mapandi, a carrier whom I had noticed shivering with fever for the last day or two, stiffened, grew cold and died beside me in the mud. Peter MacQueen in his book In Wildest Africa

High Altitude Cerebral Oedema / Edema (HACO /HACE)

HACO (HACE in American English, where the spelling is ‘edema’) of is a build-up of fluid around the brain. It’s as serious as it sounds. It is HACO that is causing the persistent headache, vomiting, ataxia and the lack of consciousness. If not treated, death could follow in as little as 24 hours, less if the victim continues ascending.

High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema / Edema (HAPO / HAPE)

Just as serious, HAPO (HAPE in American English) is the accumulation of fluid around the lungs. It is this condition that is causing the persistent cough and pinkish phlegm. Once again, the only sensible option is to descend as fast as possible. In addition, one of the treatments outlined on p000 in the guide should also be considered.

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