If you like to hit the ski slopes or trek mountains of dizzying heights when you’re on holiday, there’s a chance you need to contend with altitude sickness! Vhi GP, Dr Dermot McGlone, explains what’s happening in our body when we experience altitude sickness, and how we can lessen its effects.

What causes altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is experienced by some people when they ascend high altitudes for activities like hiking or skiing. The symptoms of altitude sickness include dizziness, headache, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite and trouble sleeping. It’s caused by a lack of oxygen getting into your system, which is exactly what happens the higher you go in the atmosphere due to thinner air. Usually, symptoms kick in when you ascend too quickly and your body doesn’t have time to adjust to the lower levels of oxygen. If you’re spending prolonged time in high altitudes, your body should be able to adjust over time, so long as you don’t ascend too quickly each time.

Are certain people more prone to altitude sickness?

Anyone can experience altitude sickness, but people with pre-existing medical conditions that impact their respiratory system might be more susceptible. It’s worth noting that high altitudes can make the symptoms of some pre-existing medical conditions worse, so always check in with your healthcare provider before you head off. Physical fitness doesn’t play a part in altitude sickness, and lower fitness levels are not a risk factor. The main risk factors include:

• Reaching high altitudes above 2,000 metres
• Quick ascent of these heights
• A history of altitude sickness

What about reducing the effects of altitude sickness?
The best way to prevent symptoms is to ascend slowly, in a graded way. If you’re feeling very unwell, consider retreating to a lower altitude. Symptoms should start to ease when you come back down and pass over a few hours. Rest and limit exertion and avoid alcohol and tobacco products for a day or so. Your healthcare provider can prescribe medication for altitude sickness ahead of time, so check in before your trip if you’ll be surpassing altitudes of 2,000 metres.

Is medical assistance ever needed for altitude sickness?

Yes, it’s important to seek medical assistance if you experience any of the following:

• Shortness of breath, even when you’re resting.
• Tightness or pain in your chest.
• Confusion.
• Issues with your coordination.
• Slurred speech.
• Decreased alertness or disorientation.  

These are all signs of severe altitude sickness and can be dangerous, so make sure to descend and get medical assistance as soon as you can. With good planning and preventative measures, you don’t need to be put off your skiing or mountain trekking trip ─ the snow caps await!

This content is for information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from your GP or an appropriate medical professional if you have concerns about your health or before commencing a new healthcare regime. If you believe that you are experiencing a medical emergency call 999 / 112 or seek emergency assistance immediately.