Altitude Sickness

Altitude Sickness When Flying

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 oxygen deficiency known as hypoxidosis. Other symptoms include:

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

What to 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 traveling to a country that is 3,500 m or more above sea level, you may develop symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) after arrival. 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 to Do

• Drink plenty of water on the plane - dehydration will make this condition worse.
• Rest and slowly acclimatise on arrival.
• 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.