Altitude Sickness Treatment
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High-Altitude Health
What is Altitude Sickness?
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness, can affect anyone ascending above 2,500 metres, causing headache, nausea and fatigue. Understanding altitude sickness symptoms and prevention is vital for climbers, trekkers and high-altitude travellers.
Star Pharmacy Leeds specialises in altitude sickness prevention and treatment, offering expert acclimatisation plans, medication and tailored support to help you travel at high altitudes safely and comfortably.
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath, especially during activity
- Difficulty sleeping
Risk Factors of Altitude Sickness
Rapid Ascent
Ascending too quickly is the most significant risk factor. Gaining more than 500 metres per day above 2,500 metres greatly increases the likelihood of symptoms, as the body has less time to adjust to reduced oxygen levels.
Individual Susceptibility
A prior history of altitude sickness, extremes of age (children and older adults), dehydration, certain medical conditions (such as heart or lung disease), and poor sleep quality all contribute to a higher risk.
Physical Exertion
Strenuous activity during the first days at altitude before the body has acclimatised can worsen oxygen demand and trigger symptoms. Moderate activity with gradual adjustment is safer.
Lack of Acclimatisation
The body needs time to adapt to reduced oxygen levels at higher altitudes. Skipping rest days during ascent, climbing too quickly, or travelling directly to high altitudes without gradual exposure increases the chance of altitude sickness.
Use of Alcohol or Sedatives
Alcohol and sedative medications can reduce oxygen intake, making acclimatisation more difficult. They may also mask early symptoms like headache or fatigue, delaying recognition of altitude sickness.
Complications of Altitude Sickness: HAPE vs HACE
| Feature | HAPE (High-Altitude Pulmonary Oedema) | HACE (High-Altitude Cerebral Oedema) |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | A build-up of fluid in the lungs | Swelling of the brain due to a lack of oxygen |
| Symptoms | Shortness of breath (even at rest), cough (may produce frothy or pink sputum), chest tightness, extreme fatigue | Severe headache, confusion, loss of coordination (ataxia), difficulty walking, drowsiness, unconsciousness |
| Onset | Usually develops after 2–5 days at high altitude | Can develop rapidly, often following severe or prolonged AMS |
| Urgency | Requires immediate descent and medical attention | Requires immediate descent and medical attention |
Prevention Strategies
Effective altitude sickness prevention relies on gradual acclimatisation, adequate hydration and appropriate pacing.
Climb Gradually
- Limit daily altitude gain to 300–500 metres once above 2,500m.
- Schedule rest days every 1,000m gain to allow physiological adaptation.
Hydration & Nutrition
- Drink 3–4 litres of fluids daily, focusing on water and electrolyte solutions.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates to fuel oxygen-efficient metabolism.
Supplemental Measures
- Acetazolamide starting 24 hours before ascent.
- Consider antioxidant supplements (vitamin C, E).
Pacing & Rest
- Ascend at a comfortable pace, avoiding heavy loads on the first day at altitude.
- Plan an easy activity on arrival day to reduce physiological strain.
Book Your Altitude Sickness Consultation Today
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Got Questions?
FAQs
What is elevation sickness?
Also known as altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness, it occurs when your body fails to acclimate to reduced oxygen at high elevation.
How to prevent altitude sickness when climbing?
Ascend slowly, hydrate well, use acetazolamide and rest on arrival days.
What is the best medicine for altitude sickness prevention?
Acetazolamide twice daily, starting before ascent, is most effective and widely recommended.
What altitude sickness remedies can help at high altitude?
Portable oxygen, hyperbaric bag sessions and supplemental acetazolamide under medical guidance can be some effective solutions.
Where can I find altitude sickness medicine near me?
Star Pharmacy Leeds stocks acetazolamide and offers expert advice tailored to your destination. Book now or call us today.
How long does altitude sickness last?
Symptoms often resolve within 24–48 hours with proper treatment and rest at the same elevation.
Can I use natural remedies for altitude sickness?
Antioxidants, ginger and ginkgo may support acclimatisation but should complement, not replace, medical prophylaxis.
Is acetazolamide safe in pregnancy?
No. Avoid using acetazolamide during pregnancy unless under specialist supervision.
How soon before ascent should I take acetazolamide?
Start 24 hours before climbing and continue through the first 48 hours at high altitude.
What if I still experience symptoms despite medication?
Seek immediate medical evaluation and consider descent or oxygen therapy.