MIGRAINE AND ALTITUDE

People suffering from migraines do not have an increased risk of altitude sickness. PLANNING AND PREPARATION It is advisable to seek a consultation before the trip to ensure that symptoms are stable and well-controlled. Headaches are a very common symptom when staying at high altitudes, especially in people who suffer from migraines at sea level. MIGRAINE AND ALTITUDE ➤ Altitude can trigger migraines, so attacks may occur more frequently, be more severe, or have a different nature than those known from everyday life. ➤ Avoid headache triggers: lack of acclimatization, dehydration, physical exhaustion, alcohol. ➤ Headaches should be treated with painkillers according to previous medical advice. ➤ During the "aura" phase, individuals with migraines may experience symptoms resembling a stroke – quick observation is important, and medical consultation is advised if in doubt. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS ➤ Migraines do not increase the risk of altitude sickness, but they may worsen. ➤ Plan acclimatization well and take care of hydration and rest. ➤ Monitor symptoms and use painkillers that have worked previously. ➤ Be aware of the "aura" phase and possible neurological symptoms – consult a doctor if in doubt. BIBLIOGRAPHY • Travel at High Altitude – www.medex.org.uk • K. Mieske et al., Journeys to High Altitude—Risks and Recommendations for Travelers with Preexisting Medical Conditions, Journal of Travel Medicine, 2010; 17(1): 48–62 • R. W. Baumgartner et al., Going High with Preexisting Neurological Conditions, High Altitude Medicine & Biology, 2007; 8(2): 108–117 ------- WANT TO LEARN MORE? If you want to better prepare yourself health-wise for trekking or a high-altitude expedition, you can find an extended version of the guide in the ebook "High Altitude Medicine in Practice – a guide for trekking and expeditions" >> ----- You can also learn practical knowledge about emergency procedures in the mountains in the online training "High Altitude First Aid" >> - designed for those planning trips to high altitudes. ----- You can find the detailed contents of a first aid kit and exact instructions for preparing an expedition first aid kit and personal rescue kit in the ebook "Expedition First Aid Kit – a complete medical guide" >> PLANNING A TREK OR A HIGH-ALTITUDE EXPEDITION? If you want to check whether your health condition allows you to safely participate in trekking or a high-altitude expedition, it is worth seeking a medical consultation >> or a telemedicine expedition package >> This way, you can assess health risks in advance, prepare appropriately for the trip, and increase safety while at high altitudes.

07 March 2026

The company was established in 2004. The goal of MedEverest is education in the field of mountain medicine and the dangers of high altitudes. I deal with all medical aspects of staying at high altitude. I organize medical support for trekking and high-altitude expeditions.

Specialist Medical Practice Medeverest Robert Szymczak based in Gdańsk (80-360), at ul. Bolesława Krzywoustego 19F, NIP: 5841943576, REGON: 220148318.

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