Altitude Sickness Pills Singapore: Same-Day Appointment (2024)

Altitude Sickness Medication

Authored By: Dr. Leonard Leng.
Last updated: 17 Sep 2024.

Altitude sickness medications, commonly known as altitude sickness pills, are used to prevent and treat the symptoms associated with high-altitude travel. They help mitigate the body's adverse reactions to lower oxygen levels at higher elevations. Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness, is a condition that can affect anyone who ascends to high altitudes too quickly, typically above 2,400 metres (approximately 7,872 feet). With the increasing popularity of trekking and climbing trips, understanding and preventing altitude sickness is vital before embarking on your journey.

High altitude travel leading to altitude sickness.

Causes of Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is primarily caused by reduced air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high elevations. As the body reacts to less oxygen, there is less available in the tissues, particularly affecting the brain. Rapid ascent without adequate acclimatisation is a major risk factor as the body needs time to adjust to the decreased oxygen availability. Other contributing factors include the altitude reached, individual susceptibility, physical exertion and dehydration.

Altitude Sickness Symptoms

Common symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and trouble sleeping. Severe forms of altitude sickness can lead to life-threatening conditions like high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) and high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE).

Young asian male experiencing altitude sickness symptoms.

How Altitude Sickness Medication Works

Altitude sickness medication works by helping the body adjust to high altitudes faster. It works by increasing bicarbonate excretion, leading to metabolic acidosis. This process stimulates breathing and enhances oxygen levels in both the lungs and blood. Additionally, it prevents fluid retention, reducing the risk of dangerous fluid buildup in the lungs and brain. These combined effects improve oxygenation and significantly lower the likelihood of experiencing altitude sickness symptoms.

Acetazolamide stimulates breathing leading to more oxygen in blood.

Altitude Sickness Medication Side Effects

Common side effects of altitude sickness medication include tingling, taste changes, drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light. Individuals with kidney or liver disease, glaucoma or sulfonamide allergy should inform your doctor as well. Additionally, it can interact with other medications such as aspirin, which may increase its side effects, and anticonvulsants, which could alter the effectiveness of either medication. It is essential to discuss potential side effects with your doctor before starting the medication to ensure safe use tailored to individual health needs and conditions.

Young asian man experiencing altitude sickness medication side effects.

Other Strategies to Prevent Altitude Sickness

Preparing for high-altitude travel is critical to reduce the risk of developing altitude sickness. Besides medications, other common strategies to mitigate altitude sickness can include gradual ascent, proper hydration, avoiding alcohol, and taking time to acclimatise at intermediate altitudes. Combining these strategies with proper medical guidance ensures a comprehensive approach to preventing altitude sickness and safeguarding your health during high-altitude adventures.

Effective strategies to prevent altitude sickness such as gradual ascent.

Where to Buy Altitude Sickness Pills in Singapore?

At ATA Medical, we provide consultation and prescription for altitude sickness medication with the prices are as follows:

Treatment Price*
Consultation From $38.15
Altitude Sickness Medication (dosage varies depending on factors such as the duration of your travel, destination, personal health, etc.) $1.31 per tab
*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

Summary

Altitude sickness medications can help prevent and manage symptoms of high-altitude travel by promoting faster acclimatisation, allowing for safer and more comfortable journeys to high elevations. However, understanding and addressing potential side effects is essential for safe use. If you are planning high-altitude travel, schedule an appointment today to consult a doctor to discuss appropriate preventative measures for altitude sickness tailored to your individual needs.

How Do I Book an Altitude Sickness Medication Appointment?

ATA Medical @ Orchard

Address: 1 Orchard Blvd, #05-09 Camden Medical Centre, Singapore 248649
Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard Station (TE13)
Contact Number: 6322 7331
Email: camden@atamed.sg
Opening Hours:
Mon - Fri: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Sat: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Sun & PH: Closed
Please note that our last appointment is at 5:15 PM from Monday to Friday and at 12:15 PM on Saturday. Thank you for your understanding.

ATA Medical @ Tanjong Pagar

Address: 72 Anson Rd, #01-02 Anson House, Singapore 079911
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar Station (EW15)
Contact Number: 6223 0682
Email: hi@atamed.sg
Opening Hours:
Mon - Fri: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Sat: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Sun & PH: Closed
Please note that our last appointment is at 5:15 PM from Monday to Friday and at 12:15 PM on Saturday. Thank you for your understanding.

Navigate to Us

ATA Medical (Anson House)

Nearest MRT: EW15 Tanjong Pagar

ATA Medical (Camden Medical Centre)

Nearest MRT: TE13 Orchard Boulevard

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Several medications can help prevent and treat altitude sickness by accelerating acclimatisation and relieving symptoms. You should consult your doctor for the most suitable option for your individual health needs.
Certain prescription medications are available in Singapore for altitude sickness prevention and treatment. It is recommended to consult a doctor on what is the most suitable medication for your health needs.
Yes, altitude sickness pills are effective in preventing and alleviating symptoms. It is important to consult your doctor to determine the right medication for you.
There are medications commonly prescribed for altitude sickness. It is advisable to consult a doctor for personalised recommendations for your health needs.
Descending to a lower altitude is the quickest way to relieve symptoms. Supplemental oxygen and altitude sickness medication can also help.
Rapid ascent, overexertion, dehydration, and alcohol consumption can worsen altitude sickness.
No, you cannot buy altitude sickness tablets over the counter in Singapore. These medications require a doctor's prescription. At ATA Medical, we provide consultation and altitude sickness medication.
Gradual ascent, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and taking altitude sickness medication can help prevent altitude sickness.
It is strongly recommended to inform your doctor of any existing medical conditions and discuss potential side effects before taking altitude sickness medication.
It is advisable to consult your doctor on which altitude sickness medication is suitable for your individual needs.
Altitude sickness can be worse at night due to decreased breathing rates and lower oxygen levels during sleep.
There are effective medications commonly prescribed for high altitude sickness. Consult your doctor for specific recommendations for your health situation.