Altitude Sickness

If the body does not have enough time to acclimatise to being at high altitude, altitude sickness can occur. Altitude sickness usually happens at levels above 2500 metres. Symptoms typically occur 6–24 hours after ascent, they include headaches, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite, and shortness of breath.

The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to travel to altitudes above 2500m gradually. Avoid flying directly to areas of high altitude, if possible. Take 2–3 days to adjust to high altitudes before going above 2500 m. Stay hydrated, avoid smoking and alcohol, and strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours.

If the symptoms of altitude sickness are ignored, they can lead to life-threatening conditions affecting the brain or lungs, High altitude cerebral oedema (HACE) and High altitude pulmonary oedema (HAPE). Acetazolamide can be used as a preventive medication, or to treat altitude sickness.

Acetazolamide 250mg tablets
– From 18 years
– £15 for 10 tabs