Altitude sickness: what is it, how to prevent it, and what to do when you experience altitude sickness?

What is altitude sickness?

• Altitude sickness is caused by a lack of oxygen in the body. This usually occurs at an altitude of around 2500m or higher. In severe cases, pulmonary and cerebral edema can even occur, resulting in coma or death.
• It's a disease that many travelers in the Himalayas, Andes, or other high-altitude regions experience to varying degrees. It should definitely not be underestimated!
• The mildest stage of altitude sickness is called acute mountain sickness

What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?

• General symptoms: headache, insomnia, lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dizziness
• Symptoms of severe altitude sickness: confusion, hallucinations, walking difficulties ("drunken gait"), seizures

Preventing altitude sickness while traveling?

• Good physical condition is very important.
• Sleep before climbing; sleep at an altitude of 2500 meters for a few nights first. Try to stay at the same altitude for one day after every 1000-meter ascent.
• Ascents from 2500 m: do not ascend more than 300 m per day. Ascents from 4000 m: do not ascend more than 150 m per day.
• Never climb any higher if you have early symptoms altitude sickness.
• Drink plenty of fluids! Drink an extra 1 liter after every 1000 m.
• Avoid alcohol during acclimatization.

What should you do if you experience altitude sickness?

• Descent is the most important!
• Paracetamol can be taken for a headache. Note: this does not solve the problem => therefore, descend!
• Acetazolamide is also sometimes taken for mild symptoms.
• For severe cases, dexamethasone is recommended; at this stage, you need someone with sufficient medical knowledge.
• And supplement with oxygen from a tank and other medications.

What about high altitudes and pregnancy?

• The American CDC indicates that many doctors recommend not staying overnight above 3,600 meters.
• European organizations often set 2,500 meters as the limit for overnight stays and sports activities during pregnancy.
• In any case, consult your doctor before traveling to high altitudes during your pregnancy.

What other dangers are there when traveling at high altitude?

• Sunburn: Snow and ice reflect sun rays and amplify their effects. Therefore, even in freezing temperatures and even on cloudy days, you run the risk of sunburn.
• Hypothermia: Temperatures can be quite extreme, and at night, the temperature drops particularly quickly above the tree line.
• Falling rocks and landslides: Falling rocks, avalanches, and landslides make hiking and mountaineering particularly risky.
• Medical evacuation or rescue: If you are injured or become ill at high altitude, a medical evacuation can be difficult, take longer, and can be expensive.