Altitude sickness

What is altitude sickness?

Altitude, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when you cannot get enough oxygen from the air at high altitudes. It typically affects individuals travelling to elevations above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet).

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and difficulty breathing. In extreme cases, it can lead to life-threatening conditions such as high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) and high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).

Prevention and treatment of altitude sickness

Several strategies and medications can help prevent and alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.

Acetazolamide (Diamox): this is the most commonly prescribed medication to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. It works by acidifying the blood, which stimulates breathing and helps you get more oxygen.

How much is Acetazolamide?

Treatments are based on clinical assessment. Treatments are subject to a minimum charge of £9.65 per course. Depending on your travel length, additional tablets might be required outside the initial course at an extra cost.

How can I book an appointment?

Our travel vaccination services are available in the following pharmacies: 

• Birchwood Pharmacy in Lincoln
• Cabourne Avenue Pharmacy in Lincoln
• Parkside Pharmacy in Boston

You can schedule your consultation and vaccination by filling in the Pharmadoctor form on the relevant service page. If you have any questions, contact your local pharmacy branch.