What serious condition can result in seizures and coma at high altitudes?

High-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) is a life-threatening condition that can develop due to rapid ascent to high altitudes, usually above 8,000 feet. It occurs when the brain swells with fluid, which can lead to severe neurological symptoms, including confusion, loss of coordination, seizures, and coma. The risk of developing HACE increases when individuals ascend too quickly without proper acclimatization, as the body struggles to adjust to the lower oxygen levels in the atmosphere.

This condition is particularly concerning because the swelling of the brain can progress rapidly, and prompt recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent serious outcomes, including death. Standard treatment involves descending to a lower altitude and administering supplemental oxygen.

The other conditions listed, while also related to altitude sickness, do not typically lead to seizures and coma in the same way. High-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) primarily affects the lungs and can cause symptoms like cough and shortness of breath, while chronic mountain sickness refers to a long-term adaptation issue, and acute mountain sickness (AMS) involves milder flu-like symptoms. While these conditions can be serious, they do not present the same immediate danger to the central nervous system as HACE does.