What is altitude sickness and how can you prevent it?

Altitude sickness (acute mountain sickness) occurs when you ascend to high altitude too quickly, leading to reduced oxygen availability. In this episode, we explain symptoms, prevention strategies, and when urgent medical care is required for travellers in Europe and abroad.

In this episode, we cover:

• What altitude sickness is (hypoxia-related symptoms above ~2,500 metres)

• Early symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, poor sleep

• Risk factors: rapid ascent, previous episodes, high sleeping altitude

• Gradual ascent and acclimatisation strategies

• Hydration and avoiding alcohol at altitude

• When acetazolamide may be prescribed preventively

• Warning signs of severe forms (HACE and HAPE)

• When immedi ...