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Altitude Sickness Prevention in Hounslow

What Is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness — also called acute mountain sickness — happens when your body struggles to adjust to the lower oxygen levels found at high altitude. It can affect anyone, regardless of fitness, and typically starts above 2,500 metres. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and poor sleep.

Who Should Consider Altitude Medication?

If your trip involves rapid ascent or high-altitude destinations such as Machu Picchu and Cusco, Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro, the Andes, or the Himalayas, preventative medication can significantly reduce your risk of symptoms and help you enjoy your trip.

What Happens at Your Consultation?

Our healthcare professional reviews your itinerary, medical history, and current medications, then advises on prevention strategies and — where appropriate — prescribes acetazolamide (Diamox) with clear instructions on when and how to take it. We also cover practical advice on gradual ascent, hydration, and recognising warning signs.

When Should I Book?

Book your consultation at least a week before departure so you have your medication ready and can start it before you begin ascending.

Altitude Sickness Advice in Hounslow

Heading off on a trekking adventure? We can sort your altitude medication alongside any travel vaccines you need.

Related services: Antimalarials · Travel Clinic

Book Your Appointment

Choose a time that suits you. Booking takes less than a minute.

Book Altitude Sickness Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

What medication is used to prevent altitude sickness? ▾

Acetazolamide (Diamox) is the most commonly prescribed medication to help prevent and reduce the symptoms of acute mountain sickness. Our healthcare professional will assess whether it is suitable for you.

When should I start taking altitude sickness medication? ▾

Acetazolamide is usually started 1–2 days before you begin ascending and continued for the first couple of days at altitude. We will give you exact instructions at your consultation.

At what altitude does altitude sickness occur? ▾

Symptoms can begin above around 2,500 metres (8,000 feet), and the risk increases the higher and faster you ascend. Popular destinations like Cusco, Everest Base Camp, and Kilimanjaro all carry a risk.

Do I need a consultation before getting the medication? ▾

Yes. A short consultation lets us check your itinerary, medical history, and any other medications before prescribing, to make sure altitude medication is safe and appropriate for you.

What are the symptoms of altitude sickness? ▾

Common symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. Severe altitude sickness is a medical emergency, so prevention and advice are important.

Disclaimer ▾

The information on this page is provided for general guidance only and is not intended to replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

We aim to keep the content on this page accurate and up to date, but we cannot accept liability for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies it may contain.