How to relieve altitude sickness safely

Do not climb higher while you have headache with nausea, dizziness, unusual tiredness or poor sleep after gaining altitude. Mild symptoms can improve when the body has time to acclimatise, but medicines should never be used to mask deterioration so that ascent can continue.

At higher elevation, each breath supplies less oxygen. The body needs time to adjust its breathing, circulation and fluid balance. Ascending quickly, exercising hard soon after arrival, or having had altitude illness before can increase concern, while physical fitness does not prevent it.

A headache is a typical presentation of acute mountain sickness when it begins after ascent and occurs with symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, fatigue or disturbed sleep. More serious illness can affect the brain or lungs and may progress quickly.

Pause at the current elevation, avoid alcohol and strenuous exertion, eat light meals if tolerated, and drink normally to prevent dehydration without forcing excessive fluid. Simple pain relief may help headache if it is normally safe for you.

Travel companions should check one another because poor judgement can accompany severe illness. If symptoms fail to improve with rest, move to a lower elevation rather than waiting overnight. Supplemental oxygen and prescription medicines may be used by trained clinicians or according to a prearranged travel plan.

Descend immediately and seek emergency help for breathlessness at rest, a wet cough, chest tightness, blue or grey lips, confusion, extreme drowsiness, inability to walk in a straight line, collapse, or a severe worsening headache with repeated vomiting. Do not leave the affected person alone or allow them to walk without support.

If descent is temporarily impossible, call rescue services, give oxygen if available and properly trained, and use an emergency pressure bag only with competent assistance. Waiting for daylight or for symptoms to pass can be dangerous when neurological or breathing signs are present.

Discuss your route, sleeping elevations, speed of ascent, previous altitude symptoms and heart or lung conditions. Ask whether preventive medicine is suitable, when to start it, which side effects matter, and what circumstances should trigger descent rather than another dose.