High altitude sickness is due to travel from near sea level to an altitude higher than 8,000 feet.
If you decide to travel towards a destination that is situated at an elevation higher than 8,000 feet above sea level or higher, you may be at risk for altitude illness, which is caused by low oxygen levels in the air.
To avoid this, simply do the following:
- Do not drink alcohol or do heavy exercise for at least the first 48 hours after you arrive at an elevation above 8,000 feet.
- Ascend gradually (slowly) and give your body to adjust to lower O2 levels.
- Consult a doctor nearby and take medicines to prevent acute mountain sickness.