HACE
The heel-to-toe walking test is a very sensitive and simple field test which also helps to differentiate unclear situations (e.g. if people want to mask their symptoms) - International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation
HWN Suggests
What are HAPE and HACE?
HACE is the last and the most fatal stage of altitude sickness involving dangerous and lethargic symptoms like disorientation, visual impairment, bowel dysfunction, loss of appetite, or even death. Ascending to extreme conditions within a short span of time results in the failure of acclimatization of the body, resulting in confusion, loss of consciousness, rapid heartbeat and an altered mental state. It is learned that 59% of the people who suffer from HACE also suffer from retinal venous dilation while in rare cases retinal hemorrhage and ocular paralysis are also some of the observed illnesses.
Articles of Interest
Emergency Field Management of ACS, HAPE and HACE
Lay persons should always treat mountaineers for AMS, HAPE, HACE first, unless they are absolutely sure that there is another reason for the symptoms. Doctors should also always consider AMS, HAPE, or HACE at (high) altitude first, but they should always take other diagnoses into account,
Tips for Spotting and Treating High-Altitude Illness
Treatment for HACE is immediate descent. If that is not possible, the patient should be treated in a hyperbaric chamber, along with 2–4 L nasal cannula and dexamethasone for alleviation of symptoms related to cerebral edema. In the event the patient becomes unresponsive, consider protecting the airway.
