Side effects: Medication used to help prevent altitude sickness may cause side effects such as tingling in the fingers or toes, increased urination, taste changes, nausea, or mild stomach upset.
Additional precautions: Ascend gradually where possible, stay well hydrated, avoid alcohol at high altitude, and allow your body time to adjust before intense physical activity.
Risks caused by altitude sickness: If symptoms are ignored, altitude sickness can become serious and may affect the lungs or brain. Severe cases need urgent medical attention and may require descent to a lower altitude.