What does HACE stand for?

HACE stands for High Altitude Cerebral Edema. This medical condition occurs when an individual ascends to high altitudes and is unable to acclimatize properly, leading to fluid accumulation in the brain. The symptoms often include severe headache, confusion, ataxia (loss of coordination), and changes in consciousness. HACE is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly, usually through descent to a lower altitude and medical intervention.

Understanding HACE is crucial for anyone operating in high-altitude environments, such as mountain warfare scenarios, as recognizing and addressing the symptoms early can be the difference between a successful mission and a medical emergency.