What should you know about oxygen for altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness develops when the body has not adapted to thinner air. It may cause headache, nausea, dizziness, tiredness, and poor sleep. Oxygen can raise the amount of oxygen available for breathing while it is being used, which may ease symptoms temporarily.

Oxygen is supportive care, not a substitute for descent. Worsening headache, confusion, difficulty walking, breathlessness at rest, or a cough with frothy sputum can signal a dangerous altitude-related illness and needs urgent action.

Stop going higher as soon as symptoms appear. Rest, avoid alcohol and sedatives, and tell your group or guide. If symptoms are more than mild, descend with assistance and arrange medical assessment. Use oxygen only as directed and check that the equipment is suitable for the altitude and available supply. A travel health consultation before departure can help plan medicines, acclimatisation, and emergency steps.

Treat confusion, inability to walk normally, severe breathlessness, fainting, or a worsening cough as an emergency. Begin descent and contact emergency services or local mountain rescue. Do not leave an affected person alone or rely on symptom improvement during oxygen use as proof that the danger has passed.

Am I fit for this altitude and itinerary? What symptoms mean I must descend? Should I carry oxygen or any prescribed medicine? How will another illness affect my risk?