Altitude Sickness Medicines & Treatment

About altitude sickness

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), can occur when ascending to high elevations above 8,000 feet (2,438 meters). At such heights, the air becomes thinner, reducing oxygen levels, affecting your body's ability to function optimally. It can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. However, some factors can increase the risk of developing AMS, including rapid ascent, inadequate acclimatisation, and individual susceptibility. Recognising the symptoms promptly and taking appropriate action to avoid further complications is crucial.

Symptoms of altitude sickness include:

• Headaches

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fatigue or weakness

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Shortness of breath

• Difficulty sleeping

How this service works

Before embarking on your high-altitude adventure, it's essential to be well-prepared. Our service begins with a comprehensive pre-travel consultation, during which our healthcare experts will:

• Review Your Medical History

  • We will send you a link in your booking confirmation email to complete a patient questionnaire and provide relevant details about your medical history to identify any pre-existing conditions that may increase the risk of altitude sickness.

    
    

• Assess Your Fitness Level

  • Our qualified prescribers will thoroughly review your information. They will contact you to assess your fitness levels. Understanding your fitness level helps us tailor our recommendations to your needs.

    
    

• Provide Altitude Sickness Education

  • Our prescribers will educate you about altitude sickness, its symptoms, and risk factors to ensure you are aware and prepared. Where appropriate, they will recommend suitable treatment options tailored to your needs. If our prescribers determine that a prescription is necessary, we will issue it electronically and send it to one of our branches for you to collect. You can also have this sent to another pharmacy of your choice. You will need to pay for the medication prescribed when you collect it.