Is altitude sickness safe in travellers?

Mild altitude illness may improve after resting at the same elevation and allowing the body to acclimatise. Symptoms that become stronger, do not improve, or appear with breathlessness at rest, confusion, loss of coordination, extreme drowsiness, or a wet cough are warning signs of a severe altitude problem. Fitness does not reliably prevent altitude illness, and previous easy trips do not guarantee the next ascent will be trouble-free.

Ascend gradually, plan rest periods, drink normally, avoid alcohol while adjusting, and do not push through a headache or nausea. Tell travel companions how you feel and keep a plan for returning to a lower elevation. If symptoms begin, stop ascending and seek advice from a trained guide or clinician. People with heart, lung, or sleep conditions should discuss travel plans before departure.

Descend promptly and seek urgent medical help for confusion, difficulty walking, fainting, severe breathlessness at rest, blue lips, extreme weakness, or a cough producing frothy sputum. Do not leave a severely unwell traveller alone. If mild symptoms persist despite rest or worsen during the night, arrange urgent assessment rather than continuing the itinerary.

Ask how your planned route affects risk, how quickly to ascend, what symptoms should stop the journey, and whether your existing medicines or health conditions change the plan. Ask what emergency support is available and whether a travel consultation is appropriate before departure.