| What it is | Fluid in the lungs at altitude |
| Symptoms | Breathlessness, cough, extreme fatigue |
| Severity | Life-threatening |
| Response | Immediate descent + emergency care |
HAPE (high-altitude pulmonary edema) is a severe, life-threatening form of altitude illness in which fluid accumulates in the lungs, causing breathlessness, a cough, and extreme fatigue. It can develop within days of ascending too high too fast, and immediate descent and emergency care are essential — HAPE can be fatal within hours.
Warning signs
Breathlessness beyond what exertion explains, a cough (sometimes frothy or pink), severe fatigue, and chest tightness — often worse at night. It can follow untreated AMS.
Response
Descend immediately. Oxygen and medication help, but descent is the cure. This article is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice; seek emergency care.
Frequently asked questions
What is HAPE?
HAPE is high-altitude pulmonary edema — a buildup of fluid in the lungs that strikes at altitude, usually after ascending too high too fast. It starves the body of oxygen and is one of the leading causes of altitude-related death. It is a medical emergency.
What are the symptoms of HAPE?
Key signs are breathlessness out of proportion to exertion (and eventually at rest), a persistent cough that may produce frothy or pink sputum, extreme fatigue and weakness, chest tightness, and a fast heart rate. Symptoms often worsen at night.
How is HAPE treated?
The single most important action is immediate descent to lower altitude. Supplemental oxygen, a portable hyperbaric (Gamow) bag, and certain medications can help and buy time, but descent is the definitive treatment. Anyone with suspected HAPE needs urgent medical care.
Sources
- High-altitude pulmonary edema — Wilderness Medical Society
- Altitude illness — UIAA Medical Commission