Altitude Sickness
Available at Tamar, Saltash and Whites Pharmacies.
Altitude Sickness Prevention
Our altitude sickness prevention service is recommended for travelers planning to ascend above 2,500 meters, especially those with previous altitude sickness or underlying health conditions.
-
This service is designed for travelers heading to high-altitude destinations above 2,500 meters, those with a history of altitude sickness, and individuals with certain medical conditions. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and have liver or kidney conditions, we will not be able to provide these medicines for you.
-
Patients may be at moderate or high risk of altitude sickness, depending on how quickly they ascend. Medication may not be the right choice - our pharmacist will help evaluate, however some further guidelines on risk can be found below.
Moderate risk of altitude sicknessIndividuals with a history of AMS* ascending to 2,500–2,800 m in one day.
Individuals with no history of AMS ascending to >2,800 m in one day.
All individuals ascending > 500 m/day (in sleeping elevation) at altitudes above 3,000 m, but with an extra day for acclimatisation every 1,000 m.
High risk of altitude sicknessIndividuals with a history of AMS ascending to >2,800 m in one day.
All individuals with a history of HACE** or HAPE***.
All individuals ascending to > 3,500 m in one day.
All individuals ascending > 500 m/day (in sleeping elevation) above 3,000 m without extra days for acclimatisation.
Very rapid ascents (e.g.< 7-day ascents of Mt. Kilimanjaro).
*AMS – Acute Mountain Sickness
**HACE – High-Altitude Cerebral Oedema
***HAPE – High-Altitude Pulmonary Oedema -
You’ll receive a consultation to assess your travel plans and health, followed by tailored advice and, if appropriate, prescription medication to prevent altitude sickness. The appointment typically lasts 10-15 minutes.
-