The short answer
Serious enough to plan for, manageable with the right schedule. Most people feel mild headache or poor sleep above 3,000 m; the risk is in ignoring symptoms and climbing higher. Ascend slowly, drink water and descend if symptoms worsen.
Key facts
- Rule of thumb
- Sleep about 300 to 500 m higher each night
- Rest days
- Every 3rd night above 3,000 m
- Warning signs
- Headache, nausea, confusion, breathlessness at rest
- Action
- Descend; do not go higher
How the schedule protects you
Altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of fitness. The usual rule is to gain no more than about 300 to 500 metres of sleeping height per night above 3,000 metres and to take a rest day roughly every third night. Plenty of fluids, regular meals and sleep also help.
A good guide watches the group, asks about headaches and appetite each evening and adjusts the plan.
Know the warning signs
Mild headache and poor sleep are common. Worsening headache, repeated vomiting, confusion, loss of balance, breathlessness at rest or a persistent wet cough are warning signs, and the answer is to descend, not to wait. Never go higher with symptoms.
Carry your own medicines as advised by your doctor and make sure your insurance covers trekking at altitude. See high altitude care.
Insider tip
Tell your guide at the first symptom, not the third. A good guide can adjust the plan, while a late report costs everyone days.
Avoid this
Do not take altitude medicine as a licence to climb faster. It treats symptoms, not the cause.
Related questions
Can seniors visit Namche?
Many do, usually by helicopter and with medical advice first.
Is Diamox necessary?
That is a medical decision. Ask your doctor before you travel.
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