Altitude sickness is a condition that can occur when you travel to high altitudes too quickly, and your body doesnt have enough time to adjust to the lower air pressure and oxygen levels. The best way to treat altitude sickness is to descend to a lower altitude. However, there are several treatments that can help alleviate symptoms when an immediate descent isnt possible. Here are some things you can do for altitude sickness:

Treatment approaches

• Descend to a lower altitude if possible.
• Rest at the same altitude until you feel better. Do not travel or climb to a higher altitude.
• Take anti-sickness medicine or painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol to ease symptoms.
• Certain medications, especially acetazolamide, dexamethasone, or nifedipine, can treat altitude sickness and delay more severe symptoms.
• For more serious symptoms, you may be given steroid medicine, medicine to lower your blood pressure, or oxygen through a mask.
• In severe cases of altitude sickness, descend immediately. Aim for a descent of around 500 m to 1,000 m.

Prevention

• Ascend slowly to give your body time to get used to lower oxygen levels.
• Spend a few days at an altitude below 2,500 meters before going any higher.
• Have a rest day at the same altitude every 3 to 4 days (if youre at an altitude of 3,000 meters or more).
• Drink enough water so you do not get dehydrated.
• Avoid cigarettes and alcohol.
• Increase your fluid intake. You may need up to seven liters every day.
• Dont vigorously exercise for the first 48 hours.
• Switch to a high-carbohydrate diet before going trekking to reduce the risks.
• Speak to a healthcare provider before traveling to a high-altitude destination. They can advise you on precautions to take thatll be helpful for your specific needs. They may also be able to advise you on preventive measures or prescribe medications that can prevent altitude sickness.
• See your doctor for information and advice before your trip.

Its important to note that altitude sickness can be very preventable, and there are several things you can do to reduce your risk of getting it.