Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS) can affect anyone ascending to higher elevations too quickly, regardless of fitness or trekking experience.
Symptoms can begin as low as 2,400 meters (8,000 ft) and become more severe above 3,000 meters (10,000 ft).
💡 Did You Know?
At 5,500 meters (18,000 ft), oxygen levels drop to 50% of what’s available at sea level.
Mild AMS Symptoms:
Severe Symptoms:
Confusion, disorientation (HACE)
Shortness of breath at rest (HAPE)
Wet or frothy cough
Loss of coordination
Blue lips or fingers
⛑️ If symptoms worsen while resting at the same altitude, descend immediately.
Altitude gain limited to 300m/day above 3,000m
Rest/acclimatization days (e.g., Namche Bazaar)
“Climb high, sleep low” when possible
Buffer days included in all high-altitude itineraries
- 4–6 weeks of cardio training recommended
- Pre-acclimatization at moderate elevations
- Medical consultation for underlying conditions
- Daily symptom checks
- Pulse oximeter tracking
- Guides trained in high-altitude first aid
- Itinerary flexibility based on your health
- Diamox, Dexamethasone, Nifedipine available where applicable
- Supplemental oxygen carried on select routes
- Helicopter evacuation coordination
- Satellite phones for emergency contact
| Medication | Purpose | Dosage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diamox | Prevention & treatment | 125–250 mg | Enhances breathing, avoid if allergic to sulfa |
| Dexamethasone | Used for HACE | 8 mg start, then 4 mg/6h | Steroid for emergency use |
| Nifedipine | HAPE prevention/treatment | Per doctor | Lowers lung pressure |
| Ibuprofen/Aspirin | Headache relief (mild AMS) | As needed | Symptom relief only |
Stop ascent and inform your guide immediately if you experience:
- Headache worsening with activity
- Nausea, vomiting, or dizziness
- Difficulty walking straight
- Shortness of breath at rest
- Wet cough or pink/frothy sputum
- Confusion or mental fog
- Blue lips or fingertips
🚨 Never sleep higher if you're experiencing symptoms. Descend if symptoms worsen.
We are equipped and ready for altitude-related emergencies:
- Emergency oxygen supply
- Immediate descent support
- Helicopter evacuation (where available)
- Certified staff in wilderness first aid
- Satellite communication for SOS
Recognize the symptoms early and speak up
Never ascend to sleep at a new altitude with symptoms
Descend immediately if symptoms worsen
Trekking to high altitude is both rewarding and challenging, but with the right preparation and support, it is safe and accessible.
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