Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a group of symptoms seen in people who have recently arrived at a high altitude or who have just gained altitude.
Altitude sickness is caused by the body's attempt to adjust to the lower levels of oxygen in the blood that occur at higher altitude.
About 25% of travellers who live at sea level will experience altitude sickness when visiting destinations at elevations between 2000 and 3000 metres. Above 3300 metres (10,000 feet), about 50% of travellers are affected.
The most effective preventive measure is acclimatization by a two to four day stay at intermediate altitude (2500–3000 metres) and gradual ascent to higher elevations. Alcohol and sleeping pills should be avoided. It is better to return to a lower altitude to sleep (climb high – sleep low). Drink plenty of fluid (2–3 litres per day – enough to keep urine clear).
Symptoms of early mountain sickness include headache, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, irritability and difficulty concentrating. Symptoms of AMS often appear six to 24 hours after ascent and often follow vigorous exercise or after a night sleep. Symptoms of AMS resolve in 3–7 days after acclimatization happens.
Acetazolamide (e.g., Diamox®) can be used to prevent and treat acute altitude sickness.
- Buying Medications While Travelling
It is best to bring along your own supply of over-the-counter medications and/or prescription medications as needed. In some countries many medications are substandard because of manufacturing problems or poor storage in adverse conditions. - Malaria Pills and High Altitude
There is usually no malaria above 2000 - 2500 metres, but if you are on antimalarials for lower altitude areas you should stay on your antimalarial routine. - Motion Sickness
Motion sickness usually begins with nausea, sweating and yawning and progresses to light-headedness and vomiting. Contributing factors such as turbulence, anxiety and illness can make motion sickness occur more readily. - Treatment
Treatment for altitude sickness includes do not continue to climb, take adequate fluids, take painkillers for headache, oxygen may be needed. At higher altitudes immediate and rapid descent may be essential.
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