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Ask The Travel Doctor-TMVC

Q: My trip operator for a trip to Sth America has suggested I take some pills to stop getting altitude sickness. What is available for this? I am 60 years old, and have mild diabetes for which I just have to watch my diet.   

Vic, Thebarton

 

A:  What the trip-organiser is talking about is medications for the prevention of AMS, Acute Mountain Sickness, which is a syndrome of symptoms that occur in response to humans going to high altitude where there is less oxygen in the air. Everyone will get it as the altitude rises, and it can start from about 2500 meters, and by 300 meters as many as 50% of people will have symptoms depending on how quickly they rose. Shortness of breath, headache, lethargy, poor sleep are features of the condition. It can sometimes lead to severe disease where the brain or lung are severely affected.

AMS can be prevented in many people by the use of the medication, acetazolamide. Taken in small doses, (half a tablet , twice daily, starting the day before going to altitude), it can prevent or lessen the symptoms considerably, and is worthy of consideration by travellers who will travel to altitude.  It should be avoided by people allergic to sulpha drugs, and it is a diuretic, so drinking more is also important.    

Dr Kristin   

 

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