Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness can occur when you travel to destinations that are 2100m or more above sea level. Common tourist destinations include Cusco, Macchu Picchu, Le Paz, Quito, Kilimanjaro and of course many mountaineering expeditions.

Common symptoms of altitude sickness are vomiting, headaches, nausea, confusion, fatigue and insomnia, and lack of coordination.

The symptoms are often brought on by a rapid ascent and exertion.

If you experience these symptoms you must stop ascending and you may need to descend to resolve the symptoms. Failure to do so may result in more serious conditions.

More severe symptoms due to accumulation of fluid in the lungs (HAPE = High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) and in the brain (HACE= High Altitude Cerebral Edema) can also occur.

These problems can be life threatening and may necessitate emergency evacuation.

Consequently it is important to take appropriate measures to prevent these problems if your travel will take you to a high altitude. Most expeditions should travel with a Gamow bag to treat Altitude sickness in the field.

The GTA Travel Clinic doctor can recommend medications and other measures to prevent or treat altitude sickness. Generally after arriving at a high altitude destination try to rest for a couple of days after you arrive, drink plenty of fluids and stay warm.