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Understanding Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness, sometimes called mountain sickness, occurs when your body struggles to adjust to the lower oxygen levels found at high altitude. It typically begins above 2,500 metres, though sensitive individuals may notice symptoms at lower heights. The condition can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. Even experienced travellers and athletes are not immune. The key to avoiding it is understanding how your body responds and giving yourself time to acclimatise. At a private GP practice in Westminster, we often see patients before they head off to destinations like the Andes, the Himalayas, or even European ski resorts, and the advice is consistent: gradual ascent is your best defence.

Recognising the Symptoms

Symptoms of altitude sickness usually appear within 6 to 24 hours of arriving at a new height. They can range from mild to life-threatening. Knowing what to look for helps you act early.

• Mild symptoms (acute mountain sickness): headache, nausea, dizziness, tiredness, poor sleep, loss of appetite, and shortness of breath on exertion.
• Moderate symptoms: worsening headache that doesn't respond to pain relief, vomiting, increased heart rate, and difficulty keeping up with others.
• Severe symptoms: confusion, clumsiness, slurred speech, breathlessness at rest, a cough, chest tightness, and a bluish tinge to lips or nails. These signs suggest high-altitude cerebral oedema (HACE) or high-altitude pulmonary oedema (HAPE), both medical emergencies.

Symptoms can escalate quickly. If you feel unwell, do not ignore it or push on. A private GP in Westminster can advise on a tailored plan if you have a pre-existing condition that increases your risk.

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone can develop altitude sickness, but certain factors make it more likely. The speed of your ascent, the altitude you sleep at, and your individual susceptibility all play a part. Having had it before increases your chances of getting it again. Fitness offers no protection – in fact, fitter people may push harder and ascend faster, which is counterproductive. Pre-existing heart or lung conditions, pregnancy, and certain medications also need careful consideration. Children are often more vulnerable because they may not articulate symptoms clearly. If you are travelling with family, a private GP in Westminster can review everyone's health and offer practical, family-focused advice before you fly.

Prevention Tips

Prevention is far better than treatment. Follow these practical steps to reduce your risk:

• Ascend gradually: Above 3,000 metres, aim to sleep no more than 300 to 500 metres higher than the previous night. Take a rest day every 1,000 metres of elevation gain.
• Acclimatise properly: Take it easy for the first 24 to 48 hours. Avoid alcohol and strenuous exercise. Listen to your body.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, but don't overdo it. Eat carbohydrate-rich meals for energy.
• Consider medication: Acetazolamide (Diamox) can help prevent symptoms and is available on prescription. It is usually started a day before ascent. Dexamethasone is reserved for specific cases. Never take these without medical advice.
• Use portable oxygen or a Gamow bag if travelling to remote areas where descent is not immediately possible.

A pre-travel consultation with a private GP in Westminster can determine whether medication is appropriate for you. We can also advise on vaccinations and other travel health matters.

When to Seek Medical Help

If mild symptoms develop, stop ascending and rest. Take pain relief for headache, drink fluids, and see if things improve. If symptoms worsen or you develop any severe signs, descend immediately. Do not wait. Descent is the most effective treatment. For HACE or HAPE, urgent medical attention is essential. After returning to lower altitude, symptoms usually resolve within a day or two. If they persist, see a GP. For families planning high-altitude trips, a private GP in Westminster can provide reassurance and a personalised prevention plan, ensuring your adventure remains safe and enjoyable for everyone.