Which symptom is NOT associated with High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)?

High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) is a serious condition that can occur in individuals who ascend to high altitudes too quickly, where the air pressure is lower and oxygen levels are reduced. Its symptoms are particularly related to the respiratory system and the body's response to low oxygen levels.

Cyanosis, rapid heart rate, and difficulty breathing are all symptoms associated with HAPE. Cyanosis occurs due to a lack of oxygen in the blood, causing a bluish tint to the skin, particularly visible in the lips and fingertips. A rapid heart rate, or tachycardia, is a physiological response where the heart works harder to pump oxygenated blood throughout the body due to diminished oxygen availability. Difficulty breathing, or dyspnea, is a hallmark symptom of HAPE, as fluid accumulates in the lungs, making it challenging for the individual to take in adequate oxygen.

Conversely, gastrointestinal bleeding is not a recognized symptom of HAPE. While other altitude-related conditions might lead to gastrointestinal distress, such as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), bleeding is not a symptom that is typically associated with HAPE. This distinction is crucial in understanding and diagnosing high-altitude illnesses, enabling responders and those affected to differentiate between them accurately.