Altitude Sickness in Lijiang: Symptoms & Prevention

Nestled in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, Lijiang is a destination that captures the imagination. With its ancient cobblestone streets, UNESCO-listed Old Town, and the breathtaking Jade Dragon Snow Mountain looming in the distance, it’s no wonder this Yunnan gem is a top-tier travel hotspot. But with great elevation comes a significant challenge for many travelers: altitude sickness.

Often referred to as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), this condition is the body's protest against lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. Lijiang itself sits at a cool 2,400 meters (7,900 feet), a height that can already cause mild symptoms for some. The real test comes when visitors ascend to the Yak Meadow or Glacier Park of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, soaring above 4,500 meters (14,800 feet). Understanding AMS isn’t just a travel tip—it’s essential for enjoying your journey safely and fully.

Recognizing the Enemy: Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness doesn’t discriminate. It can affect the fittest athletes and the most casual tourists alike. The key is to listen to your body. Symptoms can appear within a few hours of ascending and range from mild to severe.

Mild to Moderate Symptoms

These are the most common and often feel like a nasty hangover or a bout of the flu. * Headache: This is the most telltale sign. It’s a persistent, throbbing pain that doesn’t subside easily with over-the-counter medication. * Dizziness & Light-headedness: Feeling a bit unsteady on your feet, especially when you first stand up. * Nausea and Loss of Appetite: The thought of food becomes unappealing, and you might even vomit. * Fatigue and Weakness: An unusual lack of energy, making even short walks through Lijiang’s Old Town feel like a marathon. * Shortness of Breath: Especially with minor exertion, like climbing a short flight of stairs. * Difficulty Sleeping (Insomnia): You might find yourself waking up frequently during the night or experiencing irregular breathing patterns while asleep.

Severe Symptoms: A Medical Emergency

If mild symptoms are ignored and you continue to ascend, AMS can progress into life-threatening conditions. These require immediate descent and medical attention. * High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): This involves fluid buildup in the lungs. Symptoms include a persistent dry cough, sometimes producing frothy or pink sputum, severe shortness of breath even at rest, tightness in the chest, and extreme fatigue. * High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): This is fluid buildup in the brain. Signs include a severe, debilitating headache unrelieved by medicine, loss of coordination (ataxia—struggling to walk a straight line), confusion, irrational behavior, and eventually, drowsiness and loss of consciousness.

Who is at Risk? It’s Not Personal, It’s Physiological

While anyone can get altitude sickness, certain factors increase your risk. Interestingly, physical fitness is not a shield against AMS. In fact, very fit individuals might overexert themselves early on, increasing their susceptibility.

The primary risk factor is the rate of ascent. Flying directly from a low altitude to Lijiang and then immediately heading up Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a classic recipe for trouble. Other factors include a previous history of AMS, underlying heart or lung conditions, and living at or near sea level. Genetics also seem to play a role, but it’s unpredictable.

Your Prevention Playbook: How to Enjoy Lijiang Safely

The good news is that altitude sickness is highly preventable with a smart and cautious approach. Following these steps will drastically increase your chances of a healthy, memorable trip.

1. Ascend Slowly: The Golden Rule

This is the single most important strategy. If possible, don’t fly directly into Lijiang. Start your Yunnan journey in Kunming (elevation 1,900m / 6,200ft) and spend a day or two there to begin acclimatizing. Then, travel to Lijiang (2,400m) by bus or train—a journey that allows for a gradual climb. Once in Lijiang, plan to spend at least 2-3 full days acclimatizing before even considering a trip to the higher elevations of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

2. Get High, Sleep Low

This is an old mountaineering adage that works wonders. You can take day trips to higher altitudes, but try to return to a lower elevation to sleep. For example, you can visit a 3,500-meter site during the day but come back to your hotel in Lijiang (2,400m) for the night. This helps your body gradually adjust to lower oxygen levels without being stressed by them 24/7.

3. Stay Hydrated, But Mind Your Diet

Dehydration can mimic and worsen the symptoms of AMS. Drink plenty of water—aim for 3-4 liters per day. Electrolyte drinks can also be helpful. However, avoid alcohol, caffeine, and heavy, salty meals for the first few days, as they can contribute to dehydration and disrupt your sleep.

4. Take It Easy

Your first few days are not the time for intense hiking or rushing around. Relax. Wander the Old Town slowly. Sit in a café and people-watch. Let your body set the pace. Overexertion is a major trigger for AMS.

5. Consider Medication

Acetazolamide (Diamox) is a prescription medication that can help prevent AMS by speeding up acclimatization. It’s not a magic pill, and it can have side effects (like tingling fingers and a altered taste for carbonated drinks), but many travelers swear by it. You must consult with a travel doctor before your trip to see if it’s right for you. Never use medication as an excuse to ascend faster.

6. Listen to Your Body and Know When to Descend

Be honest with yourself and your travel companions. If you start to feel unwell, do not go higher. If your symptoms are mild, rest and hydration at your current altitude might be enough. If symptoms are severe or worsening, you must descend. A drop of just 300-500 meters can make a dramatic difference. This is not a failure; it’s smart, responsible travel.

What to Do If You Feel Sick in Lijiang

Despite all precautions, you might still feel the effects. Here’s your action plan.

• Stop and Rest: Cancel your plans for the day. Stay at your hotel or guesthouse.
• Hydrate: Sip water or an electrolyte drink consistently.
• Consider Oxygen: Small, portable oxygen cans are widely available for purchase in Lijiang’s pharmacies and tourist shops. They can provide temporary relief for mild symptoms. Many hotels, especially those catering to tourists, also have oxygen available for guests.
• Use a Oximeter: A small, portable pulse oximeter is a great tool to monitor your blood oxygen saturation. While not a definitive diagnostic tool for AMS, a reading that is consistently low (e.g., below 85%) is a serious red flag.
• Seek Medical Help: For severe symptoms, seek help immediately. Lijiang has modern hospitals and clinics experienced in treating altitude sickness. Don’t hesitate—it’s better to be safe.

Lijiang is a crown jewel of Chinese tourism, a place where history and stunning natural beauty collide. By respecting the altitude and preparing accordingly, you ensure that your memories are of the breathtaking views and unique Naxi culture, not of a preventable illness. Plan wisely, ascend slowly, and savor every moment of your high-altitude adventure.