Altitude Sickness
Also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), this condition occurs when the body fails to adapt to high altitudes due to low oxygen levels.
Altitude Sickness - Key Facts
Also Known As
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Illness
ICD-10 Code
T70.2 (Altitude sickness)
When It Occurs
Typically above 2,500 meters (8,000 feet)
Affected System
Respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological
Urgency Level
Moderate - Can worsen if untreated
Healers Clinic Services
Oxygen Therapy, IV Hydration, Homeopathy
What is Altitude Sickness?
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when your body fails to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes. As altitude increases, air pressure decreases, meaning each breath contains less oxygen.
Most people begin to experience symptoms above 2,500 meters (8,000 feet), though susceptibility varies. The condition can range from mild (most common) to life-threatening (high altitude pulmonary edema or cerebral edema).
Recognizing Altitude Sickness
Headache
Usually the first and most common symptom, often throbbing
Nausea & Vomiting
Feeling sick to the stomach, possibly with vomiting
Fatigue & Weakness
Feeling unusually tired, even with rest
Dizziness
Lightheadedness, especially when standing quickly
Sleep Problems
Difficulty sleeping or periodic breathing during sleep
Loss of Appetite
Reduced desire to eat, especially at altitude
Severity Levels
Mild AMS
Headache, nausea, fatigue - symptoms that improve with rest and acclimatization
Moderate AMS
Worsening symptoms that may include severe headache, vomiting, and difficulty walking. Descent is recommended.
Severe AMS / HACE / HAPE
Life-threatening conditions requiring immediate descent and medical care. Includes confusion, shortness of breath, and coughing.
When to Seek Emergency Care
- * Confusion, disorientation, or difficulty thinking clearly
- * Shortness of breath at rest, or coughing up pink/frothy sputum
- * Unable to walk in a straight line (ataxia)
- * Symptoms don't improve with rest and descent
Prevention & Treatment
Prevention Tips
- 1. Ascend slowly - no more than 500m per day above 3,000m
- 2. Spend 1-2 nights at intermediate altitude
- 3. Stay well hydrated - dehydration worsens symptoms
- 4. Avoid alcohol and strenuous exercise initially
- 5. Consider medication (acetazolamide) with doctor consultation
Treatment at Healers Clinic
- * Oxygen supplementation therapy
- * IV hydration therapy
- * Homeopathic remedies for altitude adaptation
- * Pre-travel consultations and preparation
- * Nutritional support for oxygen utilization
Planning High-Altitude Travel?
Get pre-travel consultation and preparation support at Healers Clinic.
Visit us at
St. 15, Al Wasl Road, Jumeira 2, Dubai
Call us at
+971 56 274 1787