Altitude Sickness
Prices
Price on Request (POR)
Book Your Appointment
What is altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness is a condition that can affect travellers visiting regions at an altitude of over 2400m. It occurs when you are exposed to a lower percentage of oxygen in the air than you are accustomed to.
Symptoms are often mild and typically resolve without treatment within a few days. However, in severe cases, altitude sickness can lead to serious complications and potentially be fatal. It’s crucial to be able to recognise symptoms and understand when to rest and acclimate to the change in altitude.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of altitude sickness are sometimes likened to those of a hangover.
- Symptoms can include:
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
Some travellers may find that these symptoms are more pronounced in the evening and at night.
Altitude sickness is not indicative of poor fitness, and it is challenging to predict whether you will experience symptoms.
What should I do if I have altitude sickness?
If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, it’s advisable to remain at your current altitude for at least 1-2 days. Avoid strenuous exercise and ensure you stay adequately hydrated.
It’s best to refrain from alcohol and smoking, as both may exacerbate your symptoms.
You can use over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen to alleviate your headache if needed.
It’s essential to inform your fellow travellers about how you feel and avoid trying to keep up with them if you’re unwell.
Do not ascend to a higher altitude until you have fully recovered. If your symptoms persist for more than a day, descend to a lower altitude (at least 500m lower). If your symptoms persist, seek medical attention. You may be prescribed acetazolamide, a medication typically used to prevent altitude sickness, to expedite your recovery.
If your symptoms completely subside after resting for a couple of days, you can consider continuing your ascent. However, proceed slowly and be vigilant for any signs of symptoms returning.
What are the risks and complications of altitude sickness?
It is of utmost importance not to disregard your symptoms if you have altitude sickness. Ascending to a higher altitude when you are already experiencing symptoms will not only make you feel worse but can also be highly dangerous.
Seek immediate medical assistance if you or a fellow traveller experience any of the following symptoms:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion and hallucinations
- Weakness
- Bluish skin discolouration
- Difficulty breathing even at rest
- Chest tightness
- Cough (possibly bringing up fluid)
- Coordination problems
These symptoms may indicate that you are suffering from brain swelling or fluid in your lungs caused by altitude sickness.
It is essential to descend to a lower altitude promptly, use bottled oxygen if available, and seek medical care without delay.
If anyone you are travelling with is experiencing these symptoms, ensure they do not ascend further and encourage them to seek medical help. Travellers who experience these complications are unlikely to misjudge their condition. If left untreated, these conditions can be fatal.
How can I prevent altitude sickness?
The most effective way to prevent altitude sickness is to acclimatise to higher altitudes gradually. It is advisable to spend 1-2 days at a high altitude before ascending to an altitude above 3000m.
Once above 3000m, avoid ascending by more than 300-500m in altitude per day. Also, plan rest days after every 600-900m of ascent.
Ensure you stay well-hydrated and drink enough water.
Consider using a preventative treatment for altitude sickness. Acetazolamide (also sold under the brand name Diamox) can help you acclimatise to high altitudes more quickly and reduce the risk and severity of symptoms.
However, taking such a treatment does not mean you can ignore symptoms. You must still acclimate to higher altitudes gradually and take care to rest if you develop the condition.