We report results for the main comparisons as follows. We downgraded the quality of the evidence in most cases due to risk of bias and imprecision.

Twelve studies included participants with acute mountain sickness, and one study included participants with high altitude pulmonary oedema. The 13 studies took place in high altitude areas, mostly in the European Alps. All studies included adults, and two studies included both teenagers and adults. The key to prevention is to ascend slowly and include rest days at intermediate altitudes.Īvoid overexertion during the first few days at a high altitude.Īvoid alcohol and unnecessary medications because the effects may be increased at high altitude.Īvoid drugs that decrease breathing rate, such as sleeping pills, tranquilizers and narcotic-based pain relievers.Ī diet high in carbohydrates may be beneficial.We included 13 studies enrolling a total of 468 participants. It is crucial to descend and receive drug and oxygen therapy as soon as possible. HACE and HAPE are medical emergencies and may result in coma or even death. Danger signs of severe altitude sickness include severe headache, extreme fatigue or breathlessness (especially while resting), and any neurological problems such as stumbling, confusion, poor judgment or changes in consciousness. Severe forms of altitude sickness are high altitude cerebral edema (HACE) and high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). If symptoms worsen during a day of rest, descend until you improve. Aspirin or ibuprofen may be used for headache. Limit your activity level and remain at the same altitude for a day or two before resuming your ascent. Symptoms may include headache, insomnia, irritability, dizziness, muscle aches, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and swelling of the face, hands and feet. What to do:Īcute mountain sickness (AMS) can develop within hours after ascending to a higher altitude. Descend if symptoms become worse while resting at the same altitude. Never ascend to sleep at a higher altitude when experiencing any of the symptoms of altitude sickness, no matter how minor they seem.ģ. Learn the early symptoms of altitude sickness, and notice and acknowledge if you have them. Symptoms can develop within hours after ascending to a higher altitude. To avoid severe illness and death, keep in mind three rules:ġ. Fluid leakage from blood vessels seems to be the main cause of symptoms. Travel by plane, car or bus and even hiking may not give you enough time to adjust, and you may develop altitude sickness.Īltitude sickness develops during or after ascent (going up). OR you can Google your destination and altitude now.Īlthough people can adjust to altitude changes, the process takes time. Quito, Ecuador = 9,252 feet (2820 meters) What is the Health Service Fee for Students?Īltitude sickness can occur when traveling to an altitude above 6,000 feet (1,829 meters) and traveling faster than the body can adapt.Īre you traveling to a high altitude destination? Here are altitudes of some common destinations:.

Altitude sickness treatment