• Altitude Sickness

    Altitude Sickness is a medical condition caused by relative oxygen deprivation at high altitude. It is common in mountain climbers and tourists to mountainous areas.

    Early symptoms

    • Headache
    • Fatigue
    • Appetite loss.
    • Dizziness
    • Vivid dreams or poor sleep.

    Advanced symptoms

    • Shortness of breath, especially at rest.
    • Dry cough.
    • Low grade fever.
    • Rapid pulse.
    • Nausea and vomiting.
    • Lack of coordination, confusion and even coma.

    Prevention

    • Expect altitude sickness if your ascent is >50m per day.
    • Climb high, sleep low.
    • Acclimatise if possible.
    • Use appropriate medication – speak to a Go Health professional.

    3 Golden Rules

    • A useful rule of thumb if: if you feel unwell t altitude, it is altitude sickness – unless there is another obvious explanation.
    • Never ascend with symptoms of altitude sickness.
    • If you are getting worse, go down at once.
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