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What is altitude sickness? Altitude sickness is a group of conditions that can occur once you reach a certain altitude. People who get altitude sickness get it because the air pressure and oxygen levels are much lower than when you’re at sea level. People may be comfortable at moderately high altitudes, but the body must make some adjustments. And this takes time. If you ascended to altitudes above 8,000 feet rapidly, you’ll be in danger of developing uncomfortable or dangerous symptoms from changes in altitude. Altitude sickness is fairly common, occurring in about half of all people who attempt to climb higher elevations. You’re considered to be at high altitude once you reach 8,000 feet or 2,400 meters. Very high altitude is considered between 12,000 and 18,000 feet. And extremely high altitude is above 18,000 feet.
