Altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can occur when ascending above 2,500m, and is common among climbers at Mount Kinabalu’s higher elevations.
Mild, common symptoms include:
- Headache
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Nausea or loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath with exertion
- Difficulty sleeping
These are generally normal and can often be managed with rest, hydration, and slow, steady pacing.
However, serious symptoms to watch out for include:
- Severe or persistent headache
- Breathlessness at rest
- Confusion or disorientation
- Loss of coordination (ataxia)
- Blurred vision or slurred speech
- Chest tightness or persistent vomiting
If any of these occur, you should descend immediately and inform your mountain guide. Prompt descent is the most effective treatment. Always listen to your body and climb at your own pace.