Altitude Sickness: What You Need to Know Before Going High

Heading to the mountains or high-altitude locations? Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can surprise many travelers if they’re not prepared. It happens because the air is thinner up high, meaning less oxygen for your body. When the altitude jumps too fast, your system struggles to keep up, leading to a range of symptoms.

Common signs include headaches, dizziness, nausea, trouble sleeping, and fatigue. Some people experience shortness of breath and swelling in hands or face. These symptoms might seem minor at first but should never be ignored because severe altitude sickness can get serious quickly.

What Causes Altitude Sickness?

Oxygen levels drop as you move higher above sea level. Your body tries to adjust by breathing faster and increasing heart rate, but this process takes time. When you ascend faster than your body can acclimate, symptoms develop. Factors like dehydration, heavy exercise, and a personal history of altitude sickness increase the risk.

Not everyone reacts the same way — you might feel totally fine at 8,000 feet, while someone else could suffer symptoms at 6,000 feet. This unpredictability means paying close attention to your body during travel is key.

How to Prevent and Handle Altitude Sickness

To reduce risk, ascend gradually, giving your lungs a day or two to adjust at intermediate heights. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals as they can worsen symptoms. Staying well hydrated and resting whenever possible helps your body cope better.

If you do develop mild symptoms, slow down your travel and avoid climbing higher until you feel better. Over-the-counter pain relievers might ease headaches, and some medications can aid acclimation, but consult a healthcare provider before use.

Severe symptoms like persistent vomiting, confusion, or difficulty walking require immediate descent and emergency care to avoid life-threatening complications.

Remember, altitude sickness is common but manageable with the right approach. Respect how altitude affects your body and plan your trip with safety in mind for a great high-altitude experience.