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Altitude Sickness Guide

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📌 What is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), occurs when you ascend to high elevations too quickly, and your body doesn’t get enough oxygen.

🧠 Types of Altitude Sickness

  1. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) – Mild; common symptoms.
  2. High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) – Fluid in lungs; life-threatening.
  3. High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) – Fluid in brain; life-threatening.
⚠️ Common Symptoms of AMS (Mild)

  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Loss of appetite
  • Difficulty sleeping

Usually appear 6–24 hours after arriving above 2,500 meters (8,200 ft).

🔺 Severe Symptoms (HAPE or HACE)

Seek emergency help if:

  • Confusion, trouble walking, or slurred speech (HACE)
  • Persistent cough, chest tightness, or blue lips (HAPE)
  • Shortness of breath at rest
  • Inability to walk straight or balance
🛡️ Prevention Tips

  • Ascend slowly: Gain altitude gradually. Don’t sleep more than 300–500m (1,000–1,600 ft) higher per night after 2,500m.
  • Acclimatize: Spend 1–2 nights at intermediate altitudes before going higher.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly, avoid alcohol.
  • Avoid overexertion: Especially in the first few days.
  • Eat carbs: They help with energy and oxygen use.
  • “Climb high, sleep low”: Hike higher during the day, but sleep lower.
💊 Medications

  • Acetazolamide (Diamox): Helps speed acclimatization.
  • Dexamethasone: For brain swelling (HACE).
  • Nifedipine: For HAPE (prescribed for prevention or emergency).
    Only take under medical supervision.
🧳 What to Pack

  • Acetazolamide (with prescription)
  • Pulse oximeter (optional)
  • Water purification tablets
  • Warm clothing (cold worsens symptoms)
  • Portable oxygen (in extreme zones)
  • Travel insurance that covers altitude sickness evacuation
⬇️ Treatment

  • Stop ascending immediately if symptoms appear.
  • Rest and stay at current altitude.
  • Descend at least 500–1,000m if symptoms worsen or do not improve.
  • Oxygen or medication may be required.
  • Evacuation in serious cases.
📍 High-Risk Altitude Zones

  • Mild risk: 2,500–3,500m (8,200–11,500 ft)
  • Moderate risk: 3,500–5,500m (11,500–18,000 ft)
  • High risk: Above 5,500m (18,000 ft)
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