How to Deal with Altitude Sickness

In-Flight Altitude Sickness

When flying, you may experience mild altitude sickness, which can make you feel as if you're slightly drunk. This is due a state of acute oxygen deficiency called hypoxidosis. Other symptoms include:

• Clammy skin
• Headache
• Nausea
• Aching lungs
• Difficulty in concentrating

What You Should Do

• Sit still and try to close your eyes
• Sip some water every few minutes and try to relax
• Avoid alcohol

Altitude Sickness on Arrival

If you're travelling to a country that is 3,500 m or more above sea level, you may develop symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) when you arrive. Some airports in the Himalayas and Andes are situated above this altitude, which can result in symptoms occurring soon after disembarking. If you have any respiratory or cardiac problems, you may experience symptoms at even lower levels.

What You Should Do

• Drink plenty of water on the plane - dehydration will make acute mountain sickness worse.
• Rest and slowly acclimatise yourself.
• Avoid strenuous activity.
• Do not travel to a higher altitude until all symptoms have disappeared.

Anybody who has pre-existing hypoxic respiratory disease should seek medical advice prior to departure.