In a high-altitude environment, atmospheric and partial pressures of oxygen gradually decrease. The supply of oxygen is hindered, leading to an increase in anaerobic metabolism in brain cells and a decrease in ATP production. The dysfunction of sodium ion pumps in brain cell membranes causes retention of sodium and water within the cells, leading to cytotoxic cerebral edema. If not rescued in time, it could turn into a vicious cycle of *brain hypoxia, cerebral edema, increased intracranial pressure, cerebral circulation disorder, difficulty in oxygen diffusion, and further brain hypoxia*.
Li Ang thought silently. High-altitude cerebral edema is common among those who rapidly ascend to altitudes above 4,000 meters. Initially, it presents with severe headaches, vomiting, palpitations, shortness of breath, and slow reactions, and can progress to coma if severe.
