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WHAT IS ALTITUDE SICKNESS?

Altitude sickness is caused by a lack of oxygen and typically occurs above 2,500 meters. The condition can develop in either a mild or severe form. In mild altitude sickness, symptoms such as shortness of breath, headaches, dizziness, vomiting, and nausea may occur. This mild form can progress to severe altitude sickness, where headaches and shortness of breath worsen and occur even at rest, particularly at night. In this case, a person will begin to feel and act increasingly sluggish, and may eventually lose consciousness. If someone in this condition does not descend immediately and receive medical help, it can lead to coma and death.

HOW DO YOU GET ALTITUDE SICKNESS?

The oxygen level in the air is lower at high altitudes than at sea level. The body needs time to adjust to this condition. If someone ascends too quickly to a high altitude without giving the body time to acclimatize, it can lead to altitude sickness. This results in a lack of oxygen in the blood, causing the previously mentioned symptoms. How susceptible someone is to altitude sickness varies from person to person. If someone has experienced altitude sickness before, the chances of it occurring again are higher.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST ALTITUDE SICKNESS?

To prevent altitude sickness, it’s important to follow these guidelines:
• Ascend slowly to altitudes above 2,500 meters.
• Do not sleep more than 500 meters higher than the previous night at altitudes up to 4,000 meters. Above 4,000 meters, do not sleep more than 300 meters higher than the night before. During the day, you can climb more than 500 meters as long as you descend to a level no more than 300 to 500 meters higher than the previous night (climb high, sleep low).
• Drink enough water.
• Allow sufficient time in your travel schedule to acclimatize, and try to avoid strenuous efforts during the first few days. Also, ensure you have enough rest days and the option for extra rest days if symptoms develop.
• Avoid alcohol or sleeping pills.
• If you have previously experienced altitude sickness or are at high risk, medication for altitude sickness (acetazolamide) may be prescribed. This medication helps with acclimatization and can also be used as a treatment for altitude sickness symptoms.
• Don’t forget that the airport you arrive at might be at an altitude higher than 2,500 meters. Altitude sickness can occur even upon arrival. In such cases, try to sleep at a location below 2,500 meters.

You can also take medication for altitude sickness. This medication can be taken once you start experiencing symptoms, or they can be used preventively. This is recommended if you are traveling to high altitudes and know you are prone to altitude sickness. During your consultation at vaccinatiecentrum.nl, you can discuss your travel plans with one of our nurses, and together you can determine if you need altitude sickness medication for your trip. We will arrange the prescription for you right away.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS MEDICATIONS?

In less than one percent of cases, side effects occur when using acetazolamide. Consult your pharmacy for more information about these side effects.

WHAT DO ALTITUDE SICKNESS MEDICATIONS COST?

If you have supplementary insurance, the cost of altitude sickness medication may be reimbursed by your health insurance. If the medication are not reimbursed by you health insurance, you will need to pay for them yourself at the pharmacy.
In addition to the cost of the medication, we charge a fee for issuing the prescription. For more information about these costs, please visit our price list.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I EXPERIENCE ALTITUDE SICKNESS SYMPTOMS?

If you experience symptoms of mild altitude sickness, it is important not to ascend further until the symptoms have disappeared. Descend if the symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they worsen. In the case of severe altitude sickness symptoms, it is crucial to descend immediately and seek medical help if necessary.
It can sometimes be difficult to recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness in yourself and to assess their severity. For this reason, it is important to pay close attention to your travel companions.

QUESTIONS OR WANT TO book AN APPOINTMENT?

If you have questions about altitude sickness or would like to book an appointment for personalized travel advice, use the button below, email us at info@vaccinatiecentrum.nl, or call 085 – 90 20 303.