Altitude Sickness: Symptoms and Treatment

Altitude sickness happens when a person doesn't get enough oxygen from the air at high elevations. I experienced a mild case of altitude sickness when I went hiking a few years ago. It felt like I had the flu.

Luckily, I was with experienced hikers, and they knew exactly what was happening to me. We immediately when down to the level ground. Once I got back down, I relaxed and got hydrated. I started feeling better after a short period of time.

Skiing, camping, and hiking are popular activities where a person may experience altitude sickness. It doesn't matter how fit or in-shape a person is, altitude sickness can strike anyone. Even the most fit athletes have been know to have experienced altitude sickness.

Preparation Before Going Into High Altitude Situations
Before you subject yourself to any high altitude situations, be prepared. If going with a group of friends, explain to them that altitude sickness may occur, and educate them on what symptoms to look for. Bring plenty of water, healthy snacks, and over-the-counter aspirin.

Also, make sure that everyone in the group knows to immediately inform someone should symptoms occur. Immediate action can then be taken to help alleviate the altitude sickness symptoms.

Altitude Sickness Symptoms
Those experiencing altitude sickness may have extreme headaches, loss of appetite, vomiting, weakness or dizziness. Symptoms can be mild or severe. In extreme cases of altitude sickness, the lungs or brain can be affected, which can result in death.

Treatment for Altitude Symptoms
If you suspect that you're experiencing altitude sickness, never continue going up in hopes that symptoms will go away. Work your way back to lower altitude, or immediately stop and rest. If it doesn't seem to be a severe case of altitude sickness, stopping to give your body a chance to adjust to the higher altitude will often alleviate the symptoms. Rest and drink plenty of water. Stay away from alcohol.

If problems still persist, oxygen may need to be administered to help to treat the person. If a headache persists, take an over-the-counter aspirin or pain reliever. If symptoms seem to worsen, go immediately to a physician to be on the safe side. They can do test to determine if you are suffering from severe complications from altitude sickness, which will need immediate medical care.

For more information on altitude sickness go to: www.altitude.org, www.webmd.com or www.righthealth.com.