High-altitude peripheral oedema

Accumulation of fluid in the subcutaneous tissue, which occurs at an altitude of more than 2500 metres of altitude. There is a higher prevalence in women.

It is attributed to a retention of sodium and water in subjects who urinate less and increase in weight.

There is swelling which becomes more apparant in eyelids, cheeks and ankles.

The treatment is to slowly acclimatise to the altitude. The drug acetazolamide can speed up its resolution.

It is not an emergency if there are no further symptoms of mountain sickness.