There are many preparations and arrangements to be made whenever travelling is involved.  From travel vaccines to preparing for proper food and beverage safety, there is quite a lot to consider.  Especially, if priority is placed on the traveller’s health and safety.  If travelling at high altitudes is necessary to reach a destination, or the destination itself is located at higher altitudes, it is important to be aware of High-Altitude Illness. Today, we will discuss High-Altitude Illness, including its symptoms, and what clinics can do to help prevent and treat it.

What Is High-Altitude Illness?

High-Altitude Illness is the term used for the physiological responses that occur when an individual ascends or remains at a high altitude. It is often considered “high altitude” beginning at approximately 8,000 feet, where the air pressure is lower.   It is also referred to as Mountain Sickness and High-Altitude Sickness.

This may include being at high elevations due to flying, which tends to occur at 30,000 to 45,000 feet.  Or, if the destination is in a high-elevation location.  For example, the mountains of Peru, Bogotá, Switzerland, Machu Picchu, Tibet, Bolivia, and many other popular travel destinations.

While it is a broad term, High-Altitude Illness refers to the symptoms and conditions that may arise when the human body is exposed to the lower oxygen levels of high altitudes.  There are various types of altitude-related illnesses.  This includes Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), and High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE).

Who Is At Risk?

Everyone is prone to High-Altitude Illness, however, it may affect some more than others*.  For example, some studies claim that people under 60 are more likely to get altitude illness on airplanes than their older counterparts.  

This study also showed that women may experience it more often than men.  Additionally, those who are flying while dehydrated, whether from minimal water intake or consumption of caffeinated and/or alcoholic beverages, have a greater chance of experiencing symptoms.  Other risk factors include lung disease, heart disease, previous experience with altitude sickness, and more.

*It is best to advise your primary physician of your trip and ask for their professional opinion, as they know your unique medical history.  They may also know of more recent studies that may provide updated evidence.

Symptoms of High-Altitude Illness

It is often assumed that there is only one form of high-altitude illness, and only a few select symptoms.  Now that we know there are various types, it’s important to know the symptoms of each.  This ensures the safest course of treatment can be provided as soon as possible.  

Altitude illness symptoms vary based on the type of altitude illness experienced.  Typically, these symptoms begin after about 3-9 hours of flying at high elevations.  The most common form is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).  This is usually characterized by headache, nausea and/or vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue/sleepiness/trouble sleeping, shortness of breath, and dizziness.

HACE and HAPE

The more serious conditions include High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) and High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE).  HAPE is potentially life-threatening due to the accumulation of fluid in the lungs.  This causes shortness of breath, coughing, and potential drowning.  Its symptoms include fever, panting, a persistent cough, and pink or bloody mucus.

HACE involves the swelling of the brain, which leads to confusion, unsteadiness, and potentially coma.  The symptoms to look out for include severe headaches, disorientation, loss of coordination, confusion, and seizures.

If any of these symptoms are present, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.  Especially if you experience severe symptoms of altitude illness, such as extreme difficulty breathing or severe headaches.

High-Altitude Illness Prevention

The best prevention for High-Altitude Illness is to acclimate to the elevation safely.  This involves becoming gradually accustomed to the higher elevation by ascending slowly.  This is true regardless of a person’s age or physical fitness and health.

After arriving at the destination, it is recommended to avoid strenuous activities, such as exercising, for the first two days.  This provides the body with time to acclimate properly.  Therefore, if the plans involve mountain climbing or high-altitude hikes, it is best to plan wisely and arrive a few days before the expedition begins. Drinking alcohol should also be avoided as it may worsen the effects of high elevation.  

Medications

To prevent High-Altitude Illness, clinics can prescribe medications such as acetazolamide (Diamox) to help the body acclimate to the higher altitude faster.  This reduces the severity of the symptoms experienced (if not prevents them completely).

Over-the-counter options are available that may provide aid.  However, it is advised to speak to a professional who specializes in travel health first.  They will be able to offer insight into your specific destination and assess individual risk factors for altitude illness.  Afterwards, the appropriate preventive measures can be recommended.

Treatment for High-Altitude Illness

The primary treatment for high-altitude illness is to descend to a lower altitude.  However, if this isn’t possible or it is not providing adequate relief, one of the most common methods of alleviating high-altitude sickness symptoms is to simply take ibuprofen.  At minimum, this should provide headache relief.  

For more severe cases, other medications may be offered, such as dexamethasone.  Some clinics can also provide oxygen therapy, which involves the use of supplemental oxygen. Oftentimes, a special chamber that delivers a higher concentration of oxygen is used.

Emergency Care

In emergencies, it is important to have a rapid descent to a lower altitude and receive oxygen therapy.  Many clinics are equipped to handle emergencies like HAPE and HACE, as they are life-threatening conditions.  Regardless of the care provided, it is important to monitor the condition and receive follow-up care.

To better prepare for traveling, it is recommended to verify your insurance coverage.  Travel health insurance can be a valuable investment for travelers, especially if adventurous plans are frequently in their itinerary. 

Destination Health’s High-Altitude Illness Prevention 

Destination Health is your local travel health expert!  We offer preventative measures for High-Altitude Illness, like medication and quick, affordable, personalized advice.  Book your appointment at one of our convenient Massachusetts locations in Amherst, Braintree, Natick, or Springfield today!  

Everyone wants to experience safe travels with limited chances of any form of medical incident.  Allow us to help ensure an incident-free trip today! Please click here for a list of our locations and phone numbers.  Or, schedule an appointment easily online here.