Altitude Sickness Explained
Altitude Sickness Explained
For educational purposes only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider. For adults 18+.
Trekking, skiing, or visiting a high-altitude city can bring on altitude sickness — and going up too fast is the main reason. This guide explains what happens at altitude and how to ascend more safely.
What altitude does to the body, the spectrum from mild to serious, ascending gradually, the golden rules of acclimatisation, the danger signs, and when to descend.
What's inside
- →What altitude does — less oxygen up high
- →Mild to serious — the spectrum
- →Ascending safely — slow is the rule
- →Acclimatisation — the golden rules
- →Danger signs — HACE & HAPE warnings
- →When to descend — and seek help fast
For educational purposes only
This guide is educational information about staying healthy while travelling — it is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it is not a substitute for care from a qualified doctor or travel clinic. It does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. See a doctor or travel-health clinic ideally 4–6 weeks before you travel for vaccinations, malaria prevention, and advice tailored to your destination and health, and check official sources such as your national travel-health service or the CDC. Carry adequate travel insurance. Seek medical care for serious or persistent symptoms while abroad; in an emergency, call the local emergency number or 911.