Altitude sickness is the negative effect experienced when exposed too low levels of oxygen at high altitudes. Altitude sickness is also known as Acute Mountain Sickness and can lead to a medical emergency if ignored.
This home test provides you with a comprehensive check-up of your general health including diabetes (HbA1c), your liver & kidney function, bone...
What are the symptoms of Altitude Sickness?
The most common symptoms include:
• Headaches • Nausea & Vomiting • Tiredness • Dizziness • Shortness of Breath • Loss of Appetite
How do you protect against Altitude Sickness?
• Ascend slowly to high altitudes • Drink plenty of water • Avoid alcohol • Avoid smoking
Emergencies that require immediate descent:
Fluid on the lungs The symptoms of this will be struggling to breathe, extreme fatigue, coughing, blue or grey lips and fingernails, drowsiness, rattling breathing and confusion. This condition is known as High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPE).
Fluid on the brain Symptoms will be confusion, changes in behavior, lethargy, loss of coordination and inability think straight and carry out normal tasks. The condition is known as High Altitude Cerebral Oedema (HACE).
These two conditions require immediate descent by at least 500-1000m.
Acetazolamide is a medication that can be taken to help adjust to high altitudes more quickly and reduce the symptoms associated with altitude sickness.
© Copyright 2024 - Ealing Travel Clinic Northfield Pharmacy 30 Northfield Avenue W13 9RL