altitude sickness

noun

: the effects (such as headache, nausea, or swelling of the brain) of oxygen deficiency in the blood and tissues developed at high altitudes having reduced atmospheric pressure see mountain sickness

Examples of altitude sickness in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Using oxygen for an hour while experiencing altitude sickness or while sleeping can be effective.9 A healthcare provider can prescribe supplemental oxygen to reduce the risk of altitude sickness for people with underlying health conditions.8 8. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 24 Jan. 2025

Climbing one of the Seven Summits is no small feat, as hikers wrestle with the effects of altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro treks that typically span from five to nine days. —Mary Robnett, Travel + Leisure, 17 Feb. 2025

Recognizing and treating altitude sickness early and immediately is crucial for a quick recovery. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 24 Jan. 2025

These are great for those who may experience altitude sickness due to the elevation, which clocks in at 8,754 feet above sea level in town and closer to 9,500 feet in the village. —Linnea Covington, Forbes, 7 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for altitude sickness

• homesickness
• seasickness
• quickness
• thickness

Medical Definition

altitude sickness

noun

al·​ti·​tude sickness ˌal-tə-ˌt(y)üd- 

: the effects (as nosebleed, nausea, headache, or cerebral edema) of oxygen deficiency in the blood and tissues developed at high altitudes with reduced atmospheric pressure