Altitude Sickness - Herbert & Shrive Pharmacy

Planning a trip to the mountains?

Whether you’re hiking in the Alps or visiting high-altitude cities, altitude sickness is something you should be prepared for. At Herbert & Shrive Pharmacy in Teddington and Kingston, we’re here to help you prevent altitude sickness, understand the symptoms, and access the right altitude sickness treatment so you can enjoy your travels safely.

We proudly serve our local communities in Teddington, Kingston Upon Thames, and also people from Hampton Wick, Richmond, and Twickenham with friendly, professional advice and NHS-trusted care.

What Is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness (also called high altitude illness) happens when you go to high places too quickly, such as mountains or high cities, and your body struggles to adjust to lower oxygen levels. It can affect anyone, even the fittest travellers.

Common Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

Most people start to feel symptoms within 6 to 10 hours of arriving at a high altitude. These can include:

Headache.
Feeling sick or being sick.
Dizziness or feeling light-headed.
Tiredness or lack of energy.
Shortness of breath.
Difficulty sleeping.

If you experience any of these altitude sickness symptoms, don’t ignore them. It’s important to take them seriously, especially if they worsen.

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness

The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to let your body slowly adjust to the change in height. Here are some useful tips:

Ascend slowly – Avoid climbing more than 300–500 metres per day once you’re above 2,500 metres.
Take rest days – Give your body time to adapt.
Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
Avoid over-exertion – Take it easy, especially in the first few days.
Consider medication – Speak to our pharmacist about preventative medicines if you’re travelling to very high areas.

We offer trusted altitude sickness prevention options and travel advice to help you stay safe abroad.

Treatment for Altitude Sickness

If symptoms do appear, the most effective altitude sickness treatment is to rest and, if possible, move to a lower altitude. Mild symptoms usually improve with rest and fluids. For more serious symptoms, such as confusion or chest tightness, you’ll need urgent medical attention or medicine to lower your blood pressure or oxygen.

At Herbert & Shrive, we can guide you on what to pack, including over-the-counter remedies and prescription options, depending on your travel plans and needs.

Visit Us Before You Travel

Our travel clinics in Teddington and Kingston are ready to support you. We’ll talk through your destination, personal health and give advice tailored to you. Whether you’re travelling from Teddington, Kingston Upon Thames, Hampton Wick, Richmond, or Twickenham, we’re here to help you travel smart and stay well.