What to do if you have a fever at high altitude
Nov 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, the management of fever at high altitudes mainly includes rest and oxygen inhalation, cooling measures, medication, hydration and gastric protection, as well as close monitoring of the condition. Additionally, during treatment, medications should be taken strictly as prescribed by a doctor, avoiding self-administration or increasing dosages without guidance. If body temperature remains elevated, symptoms worsen, or confusion occurs, immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital is necessary.
Generally, the management of fever at high altitudes mainly includes rest and oxygen therapy, cooling measures, medication, hydration and gastric protection, and condition monitoring. The details are as follows:
1. Rest and Oxygen Therapy
Immediately stop physical activities such as hiking or mountaineering, and rest on site or return to a lower altitude area. Due to thin air and low oxygen levels at high altitudes, the body's oxygen consumption increases during fever; resting reduces physiological strain. At the same time, administer oxygen via nasal cannula or face mask to improve blood oxygen saturation, alleviate accompanying symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue caused by hypoxia, and provide a foundation for the body to fight pathogens.
2. Cooling Measures
When body temperature is below 38.5°C, use lukewarm water to wipe areas rich in large blood vessels—such as the forehead, armpits, and groin—to dissipate heat through evaporation. When temperature exceeds 38.5°C, combine physical cooling with antipyretic medications to prevent further bodily damage from high fever. The body’s thermoregulatory center is prone to dysfunction at high altitudes; timely cooling helps prevent rapid progression of illness.
3. Medication
Medications should be selected based on specific symptoms. Antipyretics such as acetaminophen extended-release tablets or ibuprofen suspension can be used for fever reduction. If cold symptoms like nasal congestion or sore throat are present, compound paracetamol-aminophylline tablets may be added. To prevent worsening of altitude sickness, Rhodiola rosea capsules may be taken under medical guidance.
4. Hydration and Gastric Protection
Drink warm water frequently in small amounts, maintaining daily fluid intake between 1500 and 2000 milliliters. The high-altitude climate is dry, and fever increases the risk of dehydration. Adequate hydration maintains electrolyte balance and promotes elimination of metabolic waste. Eat light, easily digestible foods such as porridge and noodles, avoiding greasy foods that may irritate the stomach and increase digestive burden.
5. Condition Monitoring
Measure body temperature, pulse, and respiration every 1–2 hours. Closely observe the patient’s level of consciousness and watch for symptoms such as severe headache, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing. Fever at high altitudes may trigger serious complications like high-altitude cerebral edema or pulmonary edema; accurate monitoring allows early detection of changes in condition.
In addition, medications should be taken strictly as prescribed during treatment; avoid self-medicating or increasing dosages without guidance. If fever persists, symptoms worsen, or confusion occurs, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital. Oxygen therapy or transfer to a lower altitude may be necessary for proper treatment.
