Altitude sickness medicines & treatment from medcare health clinic embark on your high-altitude adventures without the worry of altitude sickness ruining the experience. Altitude sickness – ensure a pleasant journey to the peaks.
What is Altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a condition that may occur when you rapidly ascend to elevations typically above 3,000 meters. The reduced oxygen levels at these heights can result in symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, alongside headaches and nausea.
Should your travel plans include destinations that exceed 3,000 meters in elevation, medcare Health Clinic can provide off-label prescriptions of Acetazolamide tablets, granted they are deemed suitable for your needs. Proper administration of these tablets facilitates quicker acclimatization to higher altitudes by your body. The tablets work to hasten your body’s adaptive response to the lower oxygen availability at such elevations.
The science behind acetazolamide tablets
Acetazolamide deceives your body into perceiving the oxygen levels in the air as being lower than they are, prompting you to take deeper, more frequent breaths. This preempts the acclimatization process, preparing your body for the altitude ascent.
Side effects
Potential side effects of Acetazolamide include tingling sensations in the hands or face, alterations in taste perception, as well as nausea, vomiting, and increased urination frequency. Should you notice the development of a rash, cease intake of the tablets immediately. Refer to the Patient Information Leaflet accompanying your medicine for a comprehensive list of potential side effects and usage guidelines.
Dosage and administration
Upon being prescribed Acetazolamide, commence tablet intake the day prior to your ascent to elevations above 3,000 meters, continuing until your descent. The recommended dosage is half a tablet taken twice daily. In scenarios where your stay at high altitudes is prolonged, discontinuation of the tablets is possible after two to three days at the same elevation.
Critical safety information
It is imperative that you inform medcare Health Clinic of any other medications you are currently taking, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter, as well as any existing health conditions you have. This information is crucial to ensuring Acetazolamide is a suitable option for you.
Alternatives to treatment
Opting out of medicinal treatment requires a gradual ascent, not exceeding 500 meters per day, coupled with ample fluid intake and scheduled rest days every three to four days.
Ignoring the symptoms of altitude sickness is not advisable as it can escalate into severe health complications. Should you experience intense headaches or shortness of breath, immediate descent and medical assistance are necessary.