Altitude Sickness On Arrival: How To Cope

April 30th, 2011 | by Andrew Taylor |

Considering the far-flung destinations many people travel to on vacation today, it’s not surprising that more and more travelers are experiencing altitude sickness. If you travel to locations set at 3,500m (around 11,000 feet) above sea level you may develop symptoms of altitude sickness.

Altitude sickness signs and symptoms include headache, difficulty breathing, nausea and mental confusion. If you feel ill after arriving at a high-altitude location, use your travel insurance to seek medical advice. People with respiratory or cardiac problems are at greater risk of experiencing symptoms, even at lower altitudes.

Drink plenty of fluids on the flight as dehydration can make symptoms worse. Rest well when you arrive and adjust to the new conditions slowly, with minimal physical exercise at first.

Altitude sickness can occur right after you disembark the plane – certain airports in the Andes and Himalayas are located far above sea level – or it may take several days to kick in. Often altitude sickness passes without further complications but it is best to get checked out by a doctor. Make sure your international travel insurance covers you for visits and treks at high altitude.

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