Remedies for altitude sickness

Altitude sickness, also called acute mountain sickness, can occur when your body has not adjusted to reduced oxygen at a higher elevation. Headache is often accompanied by tiredness, dizziness, nausea, poor appetite, or disturbed sleep. Symptoms may begin after reaching altitude or after climbing higher. Mild symptoms should be taken seriously because continuing upward can allow a more dangerous altitude illness to develop.

People respond differently, and previous tolerance does not guarantee that a later trip will feel the same. A recent illness, rapid ascent, dehydration, or strenuous exertion may make symptoms harder to manage.

Stop ascending and rest at the same elevation until symptoms clearly improve. Drink regularly, but do not force excessive water. Eat light meals if nausea allows, and avoid alcohol, sleeping pills, and strenuous activity because they can worsen breathing or cloud your judgment. Simple pain relief may help a headache when it is safe for you to take it.

If symptoms do not improve, or if they become more severe, move to a lower elevation with help. A clinician may prescribe acetazolamide for prevention or treatment in suitable people; it is not appropriate for everyone and should be discussed before travel. Supplemental oxygen or a portable pressure bag may be used in remote settings under trained medical guidance.

Seek urgent medical help and descend promptly for breathlessness at rest, a persistent cough, chest tightness, blue or grey lips, confusion, unusual sleepiness, difficulty walking straight, fainting, or symptoms that rapidly worsen. These may signal fluid in the lungs or swelling affecting the brain. Do not leave a confused or severely unwell person alone, and do not rely on medication to continue climbing.

For planning advice before a high-altitude trip, a travel-health clinician can review your itinerary, medical conditions, medicines, and whether preventive treatment is suitable.

Ask whether your medical history or current medicines affect altitude travel, how quickly you should ascend, what to do if symptoms begin, and whether you need a prescription or an emergency descent plan. Mention any lung, heart, sleep, kidney, or pregnancy-related concerns before the trip.