Altitude Sickness Prevention & Expert Advice
Are you travelling to high altitudes? Get expert advice and medication to help prevent altitude sickness.
What is Altitude Sickness?
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a condition that can occur when you travel to higher altitudes, usually above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters). The lower oxygen levels and decreased air pressure at high altitudes can affect your body’s ability to function normally, leading to various symptoms.
Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and shortness of breath.
It’s important to recognise these symptoms early to prevent more severe conditions such as high-altitude pulmonary oedema or high-altitude cerebral oedema, which can be life-threatening.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
The symptoms of altitude sickness can vary from mild to severe and may include:
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of appetite
- Trouble sleeping
- Swelling of the face or hands
Who is at Risk of Altitude Sickness?
Anyone travelling to high altitudes is at risk of altitude sickness, but certain factors can increase the likelihood, including:
- Rapid ascents to high altitudes without allowing time for acclimatisation.
- Previous experiences with altitude sickness.
- Existing health conditions, such as heart or lung problems.
- Dehydration or excessive physical exertion during your trip.
How We Can Help
We provide comprehensive altitude sickness prevention services to keep your journey safe and enjoyable. We offer:
- Pre-trip consultations to discuss your travel plans and any potential risks.
- Medication prescriptions for altitude sickness prevention. We will go through how to take the medication correctly.
Whether you’re climbing mountains or visiting elevated cities, we’ll help prepare you for a healthy and safe adventure.
Acetazolamide – £18 per course
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need medication for altitude sickness?
Medication isn’t always necessary, but can be highly beneficial if you’re ascending quickly or have a history of symptoms. Our clinicians will advise you during the consultation.
When should I start taking altitude sickness tablets?
Typically, Acetazolamide is started 1–2 days before ascent and continued for a few days at altitude. Dosage and timing will be explained clearly in your consultation.
Are there side effects to altitude sickness medication?
Some people may experience tingling fingers, increased urination, or mild taste changes. These side effects are generally temporary and manageable.
How to Prevent Altitude Sickness?
The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to prepare and acclimatise properly before and during your trip. Here are some tips to help you reduce the risk:
- Ascend slowly: Give your body time to adjust by not increasing your altitude by more than 1,000 feet (300 meters) per day once above 8,000 feet. Take a rest day every 600-900m or every 3-4 days.
- Get Acclimatised: Take 2-3 days to get used to high altitudes before going above 2,400m. Climbing more than 300-500m a day should also be avoided
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids but avoid alcohol or caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.
- Avoid overexertion: Take it easy during your first few days at altitude to allow your body time to acclimatise.
- Eat light, balanced meals: Eating small, frequent meals can help maintain energy levels and prevent nausea.
- Consider medication: Medications such as acetazolamide (Diamox) can help prevent or reduce symptoms of altitude sickness. We can supply this medication for you.
- Avoid Smoking
What to Do if I Get Altitude Sickness?
If you begin to experience symptoms of altitude sickness, it’s important to take action quickly, even if you are taking acetazolamide:
- Stop ascending immediately: If you’re hiking or travelling upward, stop and stay at the current altitude.
Rest and hydrate: Drink water and rest to give your body time to recover. - Descend if symptoms worsen: If your symptoms don’t improve or worsen, descend to a lower altitude as soon as possible.
- Take antiemetics: Such as promethazine, if you start to feel nauseous.
- Take painkillers: if you start to get a headache, take painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.
If you experience severe symptoms such as confusion, difficulty walking, or shortness of breath, seek immediate medical attention.
Why Choose Us?
- CQC-registered travel health specialists
- Easy to use online booking system
- Competitive pricing
- Located within Audley Mills Pharmacy, Rayleigh, Essex