Book your appointment
Choose a suitable appointment time below. Your booking will stay on this page and will be matched to this service.
Overview
Altitude sickness can affect anyone ascending above roughly 2,500 metres, regardless of age or fitness, and can become dangerous if ignored.
1
Itinerary and ascent review
We look at your planned altitudes, ascent rate and sleeping heights, since a good ascent profile matters more than any tablet.
Tablets supplied where suitable
Where appropriate, your course is supplied at the appointment with clear advice on when to start, what to expect and when to descend.
Edmund Hillary
Who this service is for
Adults trekking, climbing or travelling above 2,500 metres
Travellers to high altitude destinations such as the Andes, Himalayas or Kilimanjaro
People with a previous history of altitude sickness
Anyone whose itinerary involves a rapid ascent or flying directly to altitude
Travellers who cannot easily descend if symptoms develop
Anyone allergic to acetazolamide or to sulfonamide medicines
People with severe kidney or liver impairment
People with certain electrolyte disorders or severe adrenal problems
Anyone using it as a substitute for a safe ascent plan or prompt descent
People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
People with kidney or liver problems
People with diabetes, lung disease or heart conditions
Anyone taking regular medicines, including aspirin at high dose
Anyone with a history of kidney stones
Our clinician will review your medical history and travel plans before confirming whether this service is suitable for you.
Public-health guidance
Watch official NHS public-health videos
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?
Headache with nausea, dizziness, fatigue or poor sleep at altitude. Severe warning signs include breathlessness at rest, confusion and clumsiness, which demand immediate descent and urgent help.
Can I prevent altitude sickness without tablets?
Often, yes. Gradual ascent, limiting sleeping altitude gains, rest days, good hydration and avoiding alcohol early on are the foundations. Treatment adds a margin where itineraries are demanding.
Does being fit protect me from altitude sickness?
No. Fitness does not predict susceptibility, and pushing harder because you feel fit can increase risk through faster ascent.
When should I take preventative treatment?
Typically starting 1 to 2 days before ascent and continuing during the climb, exactly as directed at your assessment.
Related services
Travel Health
Travel Health Consultation
Not sure what you need? A full pre-travel assessment with a personal vaccination plan.
£10 per person
Travel Health
Malaria Prevention Tablets
Antimalarial tablets and expert malaria advice for your destination, without a GP visit.
£10 consultation fee
Travel Health
Jet Lag Treatment
Jet lag consultation and treatment to help you adjust faster across time zones.
£29.50
North Harrow Clinic, inside Health Pharmacy
5 Broadway Parade
Pinner Road
North Harrow
Middlesex
HA2 7SY
0208 427 2110
info@northharrowclinic.co.uk
Pharmacy opening hours
Monday to Friday: 9am - 7pm
Saturday: 9am - 6pm
Sunday: Closed
Clinic appointments
Available Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
No appointments on Tuesdays or Saturdays