Altitude Sickness
Altitude Sickness – Prevention, Symptoms & Treatment at Ham Pharmacy Group
Planning a trek in the Himalayas, a climb up Kilimanjaro, or a skiing trip in the Alps? Travelling to destinations above 2,500 metres can be exhilarating, but it also increases your risk of altitude sickness. At all 3 of our pharmacies – Ham Parade, Ham Common, and Ham Village – we offer personalised advice, prescription-only preventive medicines, and altitude sickness treatment options to help you travel safely and confidently.
What Is Altitude Sickness?
Altitude sickness occurs when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly and your body struggles to adjust to the lower oxygen levels. Symptoms often appear within a few hours of reaching altitude and may range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening illness if left untreated. It’s more common in high-altitude destinations such as Nepal, the Alps, Bolivia, and parts of South America or East Africa.
Altitude Sickness Symptoms
Typical altitude sickness symptoms begin 6–10 hours after ascent and can include:
- Headache
- Nausea or loss of appetite
- Fatigue and weakness
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Difficulty sleeping
Severe cases can involve breathlessness at rest, confusion, balance problems, hallucinations, or blue/grey lips and nails. These require urgent medical attention and descent to a lower altitude.
Altitude Sickness Treatment
Most mild cases improve with rest at the same altitude for 1–3 days. Over-the-counter medicines such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can ease headaches, and anti-sickness remedies may help with nausea.
For the prevention and treatment of altitude sickness, our pharmacists can supply Acetazolamide (a prescription-only medicine). This medicine helps your body acclimatise faster to high altitudes and reduces the risk of developing moderate to severe altitude sickness.
Seek urgent medical care and descend at least 300–1,000 metres if symptoms worsen or become severe.
Altitude Sickness Prevention Tips
The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to ascend gradually and allow your body time to adapt. Our pharmacists can advise you on preventive medicines and preparation strategies, including:
- Ascend slowly, taking rest days every 3–4 days above 3,000 metres.
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol while trekking or climbing.
- Sleep no more than 500 metres higher each night once above 3,000 metres.
- Spend time at a lower altitude before ascending higher.
- Speak to our team if you’ve had altitude sickness before.
If you’ve had altitude sickness before, speak to our pharmacists. We can advise on preventive medicines and provide advice to help keep you safe.
Why Choose Ham Pharmacy Group?
- Three Local Branches – Ham Parade, Ham Common, and Ham Village Pharmacies.
- Travel Health Experts – Experienced pharmacists offering tailored advice for your journey.
- Comprehensive Support – Preventive medicines, symptom relief, and practical travel health tips.
- Community Care – Proudly serving Richmond, Kingston, and nearby areas including Teddington, New Malden, Surbiton, Twickenham, Isleworth, Hampton, Molesey, Thames Ditton, Long Ditton, Tolworth, Sunbury-on-Thames, Walton-on-Thames, Esher, Hersham, and Worcester Park.
Book Your Travel Health Consultation Today
Don’t let altitude sickness spoil your adventure. Visit your nearest Ham Pharmacy branch for expert advice, preventive medicines, and travel essentials – so you can explore high altitudes with confidence. Stay safe, travel smart, and enjoy the view – without letting altitude sickness spoil your trip.
FAQs
Symptoms often begin 6–10 hours after ascending to high altitude.
Yes. Gradual ascent, hydration, and preventive medicines can reduce your risk.
Our Superintendent Pharmacist is Akhil Minesh Shah, registered with the GPhC (Registration No: 2216208).
Not always. It depends on your destination, itinerary, and past experience. Our pharmacists can advise.
At Ham Parade, Ham Common, and Ham Village Pharmacies in Richmond & Kingston.
