Adventures in high altitudes such as the Andes, the Himalayas, or the Alps can bring forth wonder… literally and figuratively. The mountain peaks, high-altitude cities, and terrains are too fascinating to resist. However, most travelers go on not considering the health risks brought about by altitude. One of the other common and dangerous afflictions that can befall a traveler at altitude is Acute Mountain Sickness or more popularly termed as Altitude Sickness.
Fortunately, with adequate preparation and proper medication of altitude sickness, your chances are slim, and you can travel with confidence. At ICON Travel Clinic, we practice preventive travel medicine to keep you safe, healthy, and ready to take up the world’s highest fun.
What Is Altitude Sickness?¶
When the body finds it hard to cope with a lower level of oxygen at an elevation generally above 2,500 meters (around 8,200 feet), altitude sickness sets in. Hence the higher you go and the faster you ascend, the greater the likelihood of having symptoms.
Regular symptoms of altitude sickness causing discomfort include:
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Insomnia
In the extreme stages, altitude sickness can lead to HAPE or HACE, which are life-threatening conditions that need immediate descent and medical attention.
Why Altitude Sickness Medication Matters¶
Though some tourists may simply acclimatize naturally to the high air, those who cannot might need something to stave off or manage the symptoms. With this said, altitude sickness medication lies at the core of matters.
Key benefits include:¶
- Prevents the symptoms from beginning
- Works to lessen symptoms once AMS starts to develop
- Ensures safety to ascend to a higher elevation in relative acclimatization
- Avoids emergency evacuation in far-away or risky sites
Consulting a travel health professional about medication is a wise precaution if you are about to trek in Nepal, hike up Kilimanjaro, or go to Cusco and Machu Picchu.
The Most Common Altitude Sickness Medications¶
ICON Travel Clinic carries numerous drugs for preventing and managing altitude sickness related problems. The top prescribed medicines include:
1. Acetazolamide (Diamox)¶
Acetazolamide is the most widely prescribed and effective drug for preventing AMS. The drug speeds up your body’s natural acclimatization program. It is generally taken during the 1-2 days prior to and during the ascent.
2. Dexamethasone¶
This steroid reduces brain swelling due to altitude changes and is generally used in moderate to severe cases. It can also be used as a second-line agent when acetazolamide is not tolerated well.
3. Ibuprofen or Paracetamol¶
These OTC drugs alleviate headaches and minor symptoms associated with AMS.
4. Nifedipine¶
Treating HAPE, this drug reduces high pulmonary artery pressure and improves oxygenation at high altitudes.
Every traveler is different, and at ICON Travel Clinic, we customize altitude sickness prevention plans based on your health profile, destination, and itinerary.
Why Choose an ICON Travel Clinic?¶
At ICON Travel Clinic, we want to prepare travelers for their journey thoroughly, regardless of how high they wish to go. Some services we offer include:
- Targeted travel health consultation
- Individualized altitude sickness medication plans
- Immunizations and preventive care
- Suggestions for safe travel practices at elevation.
With years of experience in advising climbers, hikers, and adventurers, we know the special risks at high altitudes and offer solutions based on science geared toward the traveler.
Final Thoughts¶
High-altitude travel is exciting and impossible to do without risk. With professional consultation from a travel clinic and proper altitude sickness medication, you can save yourself from unnecessary suffering and even life-threatening incidences.
Before you pull out the boots to hit higher ground, book your appointment with ICON Travel Clinic. We’ll make certain that you go away suitably equipped, knowledgeable, and confident to take on the next altitude adventure.
