If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if this unlikely but serious side effect occurs: rectal bleeding. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs.
Since the air pressure is lower at high altitudes, your body may struggle to absorb much-needed oxygen. This can cause disorientation, headaches, nausea, shortness of breath and weakness. In severe cases people have been hospitalized. There are many ways to get used to the altitude so you can still enjoy your getaway.
When a person travels to a location that is greater than 8,000 feet, they must do so at a speed that allows their body to acclimatize to certain changes, such as decreased air pressure, low humidity, and greater exposure to ultraviolet rays. Typically, full acclimatization can take as much as five days. If a person does not fully acclimatize to the higher altitude, it may cause a condition known as altitude sickness. The three forms of altitude sickness are acute mountain sickness, high altitude pulmonary edema, and high-altitude cerebral edema.