# AMS

/ˈæmz/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ams
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

Stands for Acute Mountain Sickness. A condition where you feel sick because you are at a very high altitude where there is less oxygen. It can cause headaches, tiredness, and feeling sick to your stomach.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Acute Mountain Sickness. A physiological condition caused by acute exposure to low partial pressure of oxygen at high altitudes. Characterised by symptoms such as headache, fatigue, and nausea; typically occurs above 2,400 metres.

## Examples

- Climbers often suffer from AMS when they go up too fast.
- The expedition leader monitored the team for signs of AMS as they reached the high-altitude base camp.
- While mild AMS is common among mountaineers, failure to descend upon the onset of severe symptoms can lead to life-threatening complications like high-altitude pulmonary or cerebral edema.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.