We have a select range of packages that include treks of travel above 3000 metres and in those conditions it is common for travellers to experience some adverse effects to your health due to the altitude.
It is crucial for you to understand the causes and effects of high-altitude travel, monitor your health closely, and seek assistance when needed. While our leaders are trained in basic first aid and are familiar with nearby medical facilities, you are the best judge of your own health and any symptoms you may experience.
The information provided here serves educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. As such, Inspiring Vacations cannot be held responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience that may arise from errors, omissions, or reliance on this information.
We strongly encourage all travellers participating in tours that reach high altitudes to familiarize themselves with information about Altitude Sickness, as it can affect anyone.
What is Altitude Sickness?
Altitude sickness occurs when the body struggles to adapt to lower levels of oxygen found at higher elevations. Generally, as altitude increases, the availability of oxygen decreases, which can impact the body's ability to perform normal functions.
This condition is most frequently experienced at altitudes above 2,800 meters (9,200 feet); however, individual susceptibility can vary greatly. It is important to note that there is no definitive way to predict how your body will react until you are at altitude, making it essential to closely monitor your health.
Symptoms of altitude sickness can range from mild to severe. While some individuals may find that their symptoms improve or resolve after a day of rest, neglecting to address these symptoms can lead to serious health risks, including potentially life-threatening situations.
Before your trip
Some medications may help with acclimatization to high altitude; please discuss these options with your healthcare provider to ensure you are prepared for your journey.
Additionally, certain pre-existing medical conditions can significantly worsen at high altitudes and may be challenging to manage effectively on-site, potentially leading to serious health issues. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with your doctor about any existing medical conditions prior to your trip.
During your trip
While our leaders have basic first aid training and are aware of the closest medical facilities, it is very important that you are aware of the cause and effects of travelling at altitude, monitor your health and seek assistance accordingly.
Symptoms of altitude sickness
Symptoms can appear within 1-2 hours although most often appear 6-10 hours after ascent and generally subside in 1-2 days as the body adjusts to altitude. They may reappear as you continue to go higher.
Symptoms usually occur gradually & can be one or a combination of the following:
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Disturbed sleep or drowsiness
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Nausea/vomiting
- Dizziness
- Swelling of hands, feet & face
If the body is unable to adjust to altitude, these symptoms will persist and if they are left untreated, altitude sickness may progress to High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) or High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). Both can be fatal if ignored.
Symptoms of HAPE (fluid on the lungs):
- Breathlessness
- A dry cough, developing to a wet one with blood-tinged discharge or saliva.
- Tightness in the chest & blueness/darkness of face, lips & tongue
- Low fever up to 38°C/100°F
- Severe fatigue, progressing to coma
HAPE can occasionally develop without the usual symptoms of AMS - a tell-tale sign is breathing does not return to normal when at rest, it remains shallow, rapid and panting even after an extended period of inactivity, often accompanied by a cough.
Symptoms of HACE (fluid on the brain):
- Severe headache symptoms not relieved by painkillers or lying down
- Confusion, disorientation & drowsiness
- Nausea/vomiting
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Blurred or double vision/retinal haemorrhage
How to avoid altitude sickness?
Certain medical conditions (such as respiratory disease) or medications (such as sleeping pills) can increase the risk of altitude sickness - it is important that you inform your leader of any medical conditions or medications before ascending to altitude.
You can help your body to acclimatise and avoid altitude sickness by:
- Drinking plenty of water - at least 4 litres per day on top of other forms of fluids such as tea or soups
- Avoiding alcohol, tobacco and substances that can interfere with good delivery of oxygen to the body or cause dehydration.
- Eating small, frequent meals high in carbohydrates.
- Taking it easy or have a regular break. Walk at a slower pace than you would at sea level and avoid over-exertion
Treatment
Most travellers are able to successfully acclimatise by following the previously mentioned guidelines. However, there are instances where medical treatment is required.
Ultimately, the best treatment for acute altitude sickness is to descend to a lower altitude.
There may be times when your leader makes the decision that you or a member of your group is at risk of serious altitude sickness and for safety insists that you cannot ascend further - please respect that they are within their rights to do so and are making that decision in the best interests of your health and well-being.
We recommend you to keep track of altitude related symptoms you may experience by completing the below chart from the first day you experience any altitude sickness symptoms.
If you are experiencing any altitude sickness symptoms, we encourage you to discuss them with your leader straight away so you both can follow your acclimatisation progress. However, should you rate the severity of any symptoms at 7 or more, or the symptoms continue/worsen after the initial 1-2 days, please inform your leader without delay, so that we can seek the advice of a trained medical professional if necessary.
Everyone will have a different perception of the severity of their symptoms, the key is to personally assess whether your symptoms are improving or worsening.