Altitude Sickness

Adventure-seekers from around the world visit Nepal for its breathtaking views, high altitude treks, and diverse adventure opportunities which makes it stand out among other countries. About their high mountain peaks, however, this is the region where trekkers suffer from Altitude Sickness.

This is the medical condition that manifests itself when an individual undertakes a long trip while moving to a very high elevation in a matter of minutes with not enough time for the body to adapt to the severe decrease in oxygen levels.

The Everest Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit are among the many famous treks in Nepal and also have an altitude of over 3000 meters (just under ten thousand feet) which leads to many altitude sickness concerns for other trekkers. With the right solutions, one can worry less and enjoy the delights of nature in Nepal.

Symptoms of High-Altitude Sickness

Nepal sickness does have an impact and toll on all individuals regardless of race, age, gender, physical condition, or even trekking experience. Symptoms for this specific illness will become critical for most if not contained within a certain timeframe.

One of the first signs of AMS is headaches and a feeling of swelling in combination with dizziness which is one way of indicating altitude mountain sickness.

• Dizziness and Nausea: Most of the trekkers experience some form of nausea or dizziness as their body tries to cope with the reduced levels of oxygen. Symptoms of nausea, as well as vomiting, are also prevalent.
• Shortness of Breath: With the thinning of air, breathing deeply becomes a challenge. Even walking uphill becomes physically demanding and one suffers from shortness of breath.
• Fatigue and Difficulty Sleeping: Above a certain level, the lack of oxygen tends to contribute to increased tiredness as well as difficulty in sleeping. These two problems are exaggerated as one goes to higher altitudes.
• Loss of Appetite: Oxygen deficiency may result in the individual losing his or her appetite. This makes it hard for trekkers to sustain their energy levels.

Preventive Measures for Altitude Sickness

Though AMS can be a risk for anyone trekking at higher altitudes, there are some steps one can take to minimize the risk of feeling sick. By doing so, the trekkers can complete their journeys across the rugged high-altitude treks of Nepal without much problem:

1. Acclimatization

One of the most important ways to endure altitude sickness is acclimatization. This is simply allowing the body to get used to a certain altitude before going up another level. While trekking, have rest days at a specific height so that you do not have to go higher with your body.

An example would be the “climb high, sleep low” strategy which suggests that one climbs to a higher altitude during the day for their trek and then descends to a lower elevation for sleeping purposes.

2. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is one factor that can worsen the effects of altitude sickness; take this into account. Water intake is crucial even if you do not feel thirsty. You should try to aim for 3-4 liters of water a day while trekking as this will ensure that your body is hydrated and that adjusting to the higher altitude does not become too difficult.

3. Ascend Gradually

Do not make rapid ascents. For areas that have high-altitudes, once you reach 3,000 meters (9,800 feet), it is recommended that you make no more than 500 meters (1,640 feet) ascents in a day after passing this level. Changes in altitude can be taxing on the body which is why this slower increase helps your body adapt to the conditions and minimizes the chances of AMS.

4. Medication

Some trekkers have diabetes or altitude sickness which is why some trekkers use Diamox (Acetazolamide). This medicine is useful because it enables the body to adapt to increased levels of blood-occluded oxygen. A quick note, consult a doctor before using a medicine for your ailments. Diamox has specific requirements and it is most effective with certain health conditions. Healthcare professionals will be able to tell you if it’s appropriate for your body and altitude plans.

5. Be Aware of the Symptoms and Respond to Them promptly

Knowing the symptoms of AMS helps in recognizing them if they occur. If you start developing a milder symptom of headache or dizziness, that should be taken seriously so that the body has time to adjust. In case of worsening symptoms, the best course of action is to head to a lower altitude as not doing so may worsen the sickness. High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) are two forms of altitude sickness that could develop if one continues to climb in height, both of which could lead to death.

6. Take Notice of What Your Body is Communicating

Note and take care of how your body responds during the trek. Any sign that might be associated with AMS should start the rest and recovery phase. Looking the other way can be fatal. Having a guide while trekking can also be useful for early detection of AMS and for taking necessary safety measures.

Conclusion

While the Mt. Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit treks are remarkable, high-altitude sickness is a reality that naggingly bothers trekkers in Nepal. One can enjoy these beautiful excursions without any major challenges, provided they are adequately hydrated, incrementally elevated, aware of their symptoms, and separately claim to be properly acclimatized.