Final answer:
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) resulting from acute exposure to high altitude can cause symptoms like headaches and fatigue. In severe cases, it may lead to permanent brain damage or cognitive effects if not treated promptly. Proper acclimatization and precautions like supplemental oxygen can reduce these risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Exposure to extreme altitude can lead to acute mountain sickness (AMS), which occurs due to a low partial pressure of oxygen at high altitudes. This condition is characterised by symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, disorientation, and nausea. In severe cases, AMS can progress to pulmonary or cerebral edema, which can cause permanent brain damage or long-term cognitive effects. The risk of these serious consequences is typically associated with a lack of proper acclimatization, insufficient hydration, or pre-existing health conditions.
Mountain climbers and high-altitude trekkers often use preventive measures such as gradual ascent and supplemental oxygen to reduce the risk of AMS and its complications. The body's ability to adjust, called acclimatization, involves producing more hemoglobin to improve oxygen transport in the blood, but this adaptation takes time. Without proper acclimatization, the risk of long-term damage increases significantly.
Overall, the potential for permanent brain damage from a single exposure to high altitude is assessed based on the duration and intensity of the exposure, individual susceptibility, and the preventive measures taken. However, with proper planning and acclimatization, the risks can be significantly minimized.