This thread has morphed into something it did not start out as, and not what the original poster intended. I am repeating here much of what has already been said.
Are we talking here about simple AMS? - no
Was the original question specifically about HAPE only? yes
Is HACE or HAPE a life-threatening emergency - yes
How soon? - now
Is the death rate high? - 20-80% depending on circumstances.
Is it common at Whitney altitudes? - no
Does it happen at Whitney altitudes? - yes
Note: What is the official altitude threshold for altitude illness incl AMS, and complications HAPE, HACE and death -
8,000 feet and above. Yes, only 8,000 feet.
Was the original question about Dex for AMS or HAPE? - HAPE
Are there side effects of Dex? - yes
Are these short term or long term worries? - mostly long
Does a potentially dying HAPE or HACE victim need to worry about these side effects? no, the benefit far outweighs ANY risk.
What would you do if your climbing partner or family member was at altitude, and on the third day woke up with shortness of breath, coughed up pink-tinged fluid, had rattling in the chest, cyanotic blue lips, a heart rate of 140 and a respiratory rate of 40, and was delirious? See below.
If the patient has HAPE or HACE but because of weather, injury, darkness, or whatever, and there is no evacuation possible, and no Gamow bag, and no bottled O2, then please give the dex and conclude this thread here.
