Altitude Sickness Guide for Everest Base Camp

By Trip Pokhara 2025-08-12

Introduction:

Who would not want to join the trek that leads you to the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Everest?

Journey to Mount Everest is a dream of many people, as it is the most famous and adventurous trek in the world. It is the combination of stunning views of the white mountains, which are fully covered with snow, and a very beautiful landscape, but it also comes with challenges that all trekkers face. And you should be aware of altitude sickness. 

Here you will be able to learn about understanding altitude sickness, particularly as it relates to trekkers on the Everest route Map. Early symptom recognition, preventative strategies, and treatment options, from easy fixes to emergency measures, will all be covered. This guide will help you stay informed, organized, and safe at high altitudes, regardless of whether you're returning to the Himalayas or trekking for the first time.

What is altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness, which is also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a medical condition that can occur when your body is unable to quickly adapt to the thin air and low oxygen levels at high elevations. Trekkers and climbers making their way to Everest Base Camp or beyond frequently encounter this problem.

Since EBC is located at 5,364 meters, the risk of altitude sickness is very real. Most people begin to experience its effects above 2,500 to 3,000 meters. As oxygen levels drop significantly as you start to climb.

Some common symptoms people start to feel while getting altitude sickness are headache, Nausea or vomiting, and Dizziness. Slimming slowly by taking acclimatization days is especially important.

You should be aware of the following three primary forms of altitude sickness:

• The most prevalent and mildest type is called acute mountain sickness, or AMS. Keep an eye out for symptoms like headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia, or loss of appetite. 

•  High Altitude Pulmonary Edema, HAPE, is a dangerous illness that develops when fluid accumulates in the lungs. You may experience chest tightness, coughing, or shortness of breath, particularly when at rest. Above 3,500 meters, HAPE is more common and can be fatal if left untreated.

• High Altitude Cerebral Edema, or HACE, is the most serious condition in which fluid builds up in the brain. Extreme confusion, sluggishness, poor coordination, and even hallucinations are some of the symptoms. Although uncommon, it can happen for climbers aiming for the 7,900-meter Camp to submit an immediate descent, and medical care is critical if HACE is suspected.

Why does Altitude Sickness happen?

At higher altitudes, the air pressure drops, and there's less oxygen available for your body. Your lungs and brain have to work harder to get the oxygen they need. 

Sudden change is stressful for the body, even for fit and athletic people. Altitude sickness isn’t about how strong you are; it’s about how well your body can acclimatize to the thin air.

What elevation causes altitude sickness?

Common Symptoms to Watch Out for!

Knowing the signs of altitude sickness as early as possible can save your trek.

• Mild AMS: Headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, tiredness, and difficulty sleeping.

• Severe AMS: Symptoms get worse confusion, extreme fatigue, breathlessness even while resting, and trouble walking in a straight line.

• If you or a teammate notices any of these, take it seriously. These are warning signs that your body needs rest or descent.

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness?

Preventing AMS is all about smart trekking. Some suggestions for preventing altitude sickness are listed below:

• When you feel difficulty, go slow; keep your walking pace as slow as possible.

• Take a rest day every few days to let your body adjust.

• Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and don’t smoke.

• Consider Diamox (a common altitude med), but only after consulting your doctor.

• Most importantly, listen to your body. Don’t push through symptoms thinking you’re tough; it can be dangerous.

Medicines for Preventing Altitude Sickness

Certain medicines can treat altitude sickness and delay more severe symptoms or any further complications:

Diamox: Helps your body adjust to a lower oxygen level at higher altitudes 

Dexamethasone: Helps to reduce inflammation and swelling associated with altitude sickness

Nifedipine: Helps in the relaxation of blood vessels and increases the supply of blood

Note: Dexamethasone and Nifedipine are generally reserved for moderate or worse conditions of altitude sickness

Medicine for Altitude sickness

What to Do if You Get Altitude Sickness?

If symptoms appear for altitude sickness while you are trekking to Base Camp, here are a few suggestions you can look after:

• Stop going higher and rest until you feel better.

• If things get worse, descending even a few hundred meters can help.

• Seek medical help if available.

• Some trekking groups carry portable oxygen or hyperbaric bags (which simulate a lower altitude). Ask your guide about their availability before your trek.

Packing Tips for AMS Prevention

You can increase your safety at high altitude by packing appropriately. Bring pain relievers for headaches and medications that will help you prevent altitude sickness. 

An oximeter is helpful because it measures the amount of oxygen in your blood and alerts you if your body is not adjusting properly. Because cold weather puts more strain on your body, dress warmly, especially at night. 

Additionally, bring water bottles or a hydration system so you can stay hydrated. One of the best ways to stay healthy while trekking is to drink plenty of water.

When to Turn Back: Safety over Success

It’s okay to stop and turn back if your body isn’t feeling well. Climbing to Base Camp or a higher camp is exciting, but your health is more important. 

If you or someone in your group feels very sick, like confused, very tired, can’t breathe well, or can’t walk properly, go down right away. Turning back doesn’t mean you failed. It means you’re smart and brave. 

The mountain will always be there, and you can try again when your body is ready.

What happens after Altitude Sickness strikes?

When the mountain says stop, there is no point in taking the risk because your safety matters. 

There will be small signs, maybe it’s a headache or dizziness, or something, just doesn’t feel right. The body starts to slow down, and that’s where the expert guide steps in.

The guide has seen this before and knows exactly what to do. They will check your oxygen, as the oxygen level at EBC can go really low as the air gets thinner. If it gets serious, help will be called. That can feel scary, but remember, your life matters. Many Trekkers hesitate to tell about when something feels wrong, but there is nothing to be ashamed of, as you matter.

The sound of rescue will soon fill your ears, and people will help you. You will be carefully wrapped in a blanket and lifted carefully. 

As you fly down, you will find it easier to breathe. When you land in Kathmandu or Lukla, you will be provided with medical help. It's okay to feel sad you didn’t finish the trek. But you made the right choice. You listened to your body. You asked for help. Most importantly, you are safe to trek again some other time. Rescue and Evacuation, even when it sounds intense, is often gentle and efficient.

Conclusion

Trekking to Everest Base Camp is not just a physical journey; it’s a mental and emotional adventure too. The good news? Most trekkers make it safely if they go slow, stay aware, and take the right precautions. So trust your pace, enjoy the stunning views, and never rush. Always remember: safety over summit. The real victory lies in the experience, the people you meet, and the memories you carry back down the mountain.

FAQs

How common is altitude sickness in the Everest Base Camp Trek?

Altitude Sickness is very common on the Everest Base Camp trek. On the day of the trek to Namche Bazaar, 75% of the climbers experience some form of mild sickness.

What is the altitude gain on the EBC Trek?

The altitude gain is about 2504m(8215 ft) throughout the trek. The classic EBC Trek begins at Lukla(2860m/9383 ft) and climbs to Everest Base Camp(5364m/17598 ft).

Is EBC Trek risky?

The Everest Base Camp Trek is considered moderately risky, but it’s generally safe if done with good preparation in the right season.

How bad is Altitude Sickness at Everest Base Camp?

Altitude Sickness is much common challenge at Everest Base Camp, and it can range from mild to serious if ignored. It starts at elevations above 3000m where air has much less oxygen.

Do Sherpas get Altitude Sickness?

Yes, Sherpas can get altitude sickness even when they are adapted to higher altitudes than people from lower elevations. However, it is less common as they have adapted to living in higher altitudes where the oxygen concentration is lower.

Is reaching he Everest Base Camp worth the risk when altitude sickness hits you on the way?

No, when altitude sickness hits, the risk becomes serious and can be life-threatening. In that moment, reaching Base Camp is not worth risking your health. The smartest choice is to stop or descend and get help. The mountain will always be there. Your safety comes first.