Planning the trip of a lifetime, a holiday with a difference, skiing in the high mountains or a mountaineering expedition?
This booklet is written to help you understand some of the ways your body may change as it has to cope with high altitude and the ‘thin air’. It is full of information, tips and stories to help you enjoy your trip and stay healthy. Most importantly, it also covers the serious altitude illnesses which still kill those unaware of the risks.
This book has been written by people who like being in the mountains, who have a particular interest in medicine and what can happen to people at high altitude. Its contents should be treated as a guideline only, based on current knowledge.
Research into high altitude illness is not easy to do, not comprehensive and far from complete.
Anyone travelling to high areas is advised to seek medical advice before going and also, where possible, if they become ill at altitude.