How to Alleviate the Symptoms of Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness, also known as high altitude disease or mountain sickness, is a condition caused by the body's lack of oxygen. It is a subtype of high altitude illness. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include discomforts such as dizziness and nausea, which require timely management. It is essential to consume easily digestible foods and avoid overeating or binge eating. Now, let's explore how to alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Firstly, the primary focus should be on oxygen intake to quickly increase the body's oxygen level, which can rapidly alleviate symptoms. Secondly, rest is crucial, avoiding walking or fast-paced movement, let alone running or engaging in heavy physical activities. Thirdly, eating easily digestible foods is recommended to avoid overburdening the digestive system, which can be detrimental to relieving altitude sickness. Additionally, consuming vegetables, fruits, and foods rich in vitamins, drinking plenty of water, and staying warm are also necessary measures.

Medication can also be considered as a treatment option. Furthermore, it is important to understand what altitude sickness is. Strictly speaking, altitude sickness is a subtype of high altitude illness, referring to various discomforts experienced by the human body after rapidly entering an altitude above 3,000 meters and being exposed to a low-pressure, low-oxygen environment. It is a common ailment unique to high-altitude regions. Common symptoms include headache, insomnia, loss of appetite, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. Headache is the most prevalent symptom, often manifesting as throbbing pain in the forehead and temples, which may intensify at night or when waking up in the morning. Increasing lung ventilation, such as breathing through the mouth or performing mild activities, can help reduce the headache.

High altitude illness can be classified into acute and chronic types based on the speed of onset, and further categorized clinically according to the organ systems primarily affected by hypoxia. As for prevention, aside from individuals who are particularly susceptible to hypoxia, gradual ascent is considered the most reliable and safe method to prevent altitude sickness. Individuals with organic diseases, severe neuralgia, or respiratory infections are advised not to enter high-altitude areas.