A high-altitude oxygen shortage causes high-altitude sickness, sometimes called “Acute Mountain Sickness” or “AMS.” This condition is also known as mountain sickness.
It is impossible to predict who may develop altitude sickness symptoms ahead of time. We cannot predict the impact of this condition based on factors like gender, age, or even degree of physical fitness because it could happen to anyone. Symptoms hardly ever manifest less than 2500 meters (8202 feet) in altitude.
Minor issues like breathing difficulties may arise at 2000 meters above sea level. Conversely, mountain sickness happens when we ascend to a height of more than 2500 meters. A lack of awareness has resulted in thousands of deaths. It is not a deadly disease that can affect anyone. That being said, you should exercise caution when climbing higher than 2,500 meters. As we shall talk about later, it is relatively easy to prevent.
Altitude Sickness Symptoms
Symptoms of altitude sickness typically appear six to twenty-four hours after reaching an elevation of more than 2,500 meters above sea level.
Altitude sickness symptoms include the following and are similar to those of a bad hangover:
- Breathing problems
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Painful headaches
- Difficulty in sleeping
- Being ill and feeling unwell
The body sometimes exhibits more severe symptoms and signs at night.
Altitude sickness can also affect visitors visiting less well-known trekking routes in Nepal, such as the Mohare Danda Trek (3300 M) and the Poon Hill Trek (3200 M). Everything is based on the kind of place you are going and how fast you walk in the mountains. But the lower Terai is not that high up; in locations like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini, Palpa, and so forth, altitude sickness cannot occur.
How Common is Altitude Sickness?
Those who are not acclimated or who are not used to breathing at high altitudes frequently get altitude sickness (AMS). Although AMS is uncommon below 8,000 feet (2,438 meters) above sea level, it affects almost everyone who climbs swiftly to 11,001 feet (3,352 meters).
How to Prevent Altitude Sickness?
The easiest way to prevent altitude sickness is to travel cautiously at elevations above 2,500 meters. It often takes a few days for your body to adjust to the altitude.
Additionally, you ought to think about avoiding altitude sickness by:
- Avoid flying directly into high-altitude regions.
- Make sure you give yourself two to three days to adjust to high altitudes before going above 2,500 meters.
- Don’t climb higher than 300–500 meters each day.
- Take a day off from climbing every 600 to 900 meters or every three to four days.
- Verify that you are consuming adequate water.
- Give up drinking and smoking.
- Avoid doing any strenuous exercise over the first twenty-four hours.
- Eat a diet heavy in calories but low in carbohydrates.
How Can you Get Rid of Altitude Sickness while Trekking in Nepal?
- One Level: The altitudes are 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) to 3,500 meters (11,500 feet).
- Two Level: The altitude range of 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) to 5,500 meters (14,500 feet)
- Three Level: Exceeding 5,500 meters (18,000 feet) in elevation.
Altitude Sickness Prevention Tips for a Successful Trek
Acute mountain sickness (AMS), which can happen at high elevations where there is less oxygen available, is something that trekkers need to be aware of while trekking in Nepal. Although AMS is more likely to develop at elevations over 3,000 meters (10,000 feet), particularly when rising quickly, it can start at sleeping altitudes above 2,500 meters (8,000 feet). Because day hikes to high altitudes place less strain on the body, AMS is less prone to occur.
The following advice on preventing altitude sickness should be kept in mind as you get ready for a successful trek:
1. Ascend Slowly
The likelihood of developing AMS will be decreased by giving yourself more time to acclimate. Sleeping altitudes should rise no more than 500 meters (1,600 feet) every day after reaching an elevation of 2,750 meters (9,000 feet). Every 1,000 meters, add one extra day for acclimatization.
2. Climb High, Sleep Low
To aid in acclimatization, climb higher during the day than you slept. Once you are at camp, if your guide suggests taking an acclimatization walk, do as they say.
3. Consider Altitude Sickness Medications
- If you want to expedite acclimatization, consider taking Diamox (acetazolamide) two days before ascending and continuing until you reach your maximum sleeping altitude.
- Bring acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve AMS headaches.
- Bring a medicine to relieve AMS-related nausea and vomiting. An all-natural solution for drowsiness-inducing anti-nausea medicines is ginger.
- Stay away from alcohol and sleeping medications.
4. Stay Hydrated
Two to three liters of water should be consumed daily. Even if you do not feel thirsty, you should still drink enough water since breathing at high altitudes causes your body to lose a lot more fluid. Your urine should also stay clear.
How Can You Avoid Altitude Sickness?
Understanding AMS, HAPE, and HACE is essential before implementing safety measures or preventive measures. Keep in mind that at temperatures above 2000 M, you could experience mental fear. Instead of worrying, maintain your positive attitude and keep going.
1. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a condition that can affect individuals who ascend to high altitudes too quickly. It occurs due to the reduced air pressure and lower oxygen levels found at higher elevations. AMS is common in mountain climbers, hikers, and travelers to high-altitude locations.
Signs and Symptoms of AMS
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Loss of Appetite
- Insomnia
AMS symptoms can range from mild to severe and typically manifest within a few hours to a day after reaching high altitudes.
Treatment of AMS
- Immediate Actions (Descent, Rest)
- Medications
- Hydration and Nutrition
Avoiding smoking AT ALL COST!
2. High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)
HAPE, or a buildup of fluid in the lungs, can be exceedingly dangerous and even fatal. Heart failure is the most common medical symptom of altitude sickness.
Signs and Symptoms of HAPE
- a blue indicator on the lips or skin
- breathing difficulties, even when at rest
- constrictions in the chest
- The production of foamy, pink, or white discharges is a sign of a respiratory infection (sputum).
- Weakness and exhaustion
HAPE symptoms could appear as soon as you reach a high altitude. It may not recover if treatment is delayed.
Treatment of HAPE
- Drop down to a lower altitude right away.
- Make use of nifedipine.
- If bottled oxygen is available, supply it.
One drug that assists with breathing and chest pain relief is nifedipine. It’s a common addition to
expedition medical equipment.
3. High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)
HACE is a severe form of altitude sickness that occurs when there is fluid in the brain. It’s also potentially fatal, so if feasible, get medical attention immediately.
Symptoms and Signs of HACE
- severe headaches
- Limitations
- Being ill and going through it
- Issues with coordination
- Being perplexed
- Illusions, both audible and visual (Ignorance of objects that are sighted or audible)
A person suffering from HACE may lose awareness of their illness. They can assert that they should be left alone and that everything is OK.
HACE may show up within a few hours. It might be fatal if treatment is delayed.
Treatment of HACE
- Quickly drop to a lower altitude.
- Give the patient dexamethasone.
- If bottled oxygen is available, make it available.
One steroid drug that can reduce brain swelling is dexamethasone. It is a common piece of medical equipment carried by professional mountain climbers.
Dexamethasone can help ease pain if you are unable to fall asleep fast until it is safe for you to do so. As soon as it is possible, it would help if you went to the hospital for additional treatment.
The Initial Treatment for Altitude Illness
If you get altitude sickness:
- Rest for a little while where you are right now.
- For at least one or two days, avoid going up high.
- Take paracetamol if you’re experiencing severe headache pain.
- You can even take promethazine, an anti-sickness medication, or paracetamol if you get unwell.
- Verify that you’re getting enough water to drink.
- Give up alcohol, tobacco, and exercise.
The Second Phase of Treatment for Altitude Sickness:
- Although you can use acetazolamide to lessen your symptoms, it won’t go away entirely.
- Even if your symptoms appear small, make sure your traveling partners are aware of how you are feeling at all times, as your emotional state may affect your judgment.
- When you’re completely recovered, you can cautiously continue ascending.
If you’re not feeling better after a full day, descend at least 500 meters (1600 feet). - Wait until all your symptoms have subsided before attempting to climb again.
- After two to three days, your body should have adjusted to the new height, and any symptoms of the disease should have vanished.
- See a doctor if your warning signs do not improve or get worse.
Difficulties:
Altitude sickness can become considerably worse and result in potentially catastrophic issues with the head or lungs if the symptoms are ignored.
Nepal's Most Well-Known Trekking Routes Where AMS May Occur
Treatment of Altitude Sickness on a Guided Trip
If a pressure airbag such as a Gamow bag is available, place the patient in it and hold them there for at least two hours. Six liters of oxygen should be given every minute during the treatment process. See a doctor if one is available for medical advice.
To avoid getting altitude sickness, keep your daily trekking pace modest, no more than 300 meters. The daily rising percentage needs to be 150 meters following the completion of 4000 meters.
On a guided trip, some newcomers attempt to conceal their AMS symptoms in order to continue. It is essential to keep in mind that each person adjusts to new environments differently. Never try to hide the signs of a disease from one another; always be open to communication.
It is a common misconception among novice travelers that altitude sickness exclusively strikes the elderly. This is untrue. Experts claim that as people age, their brains shrink, increasing their capacity for growth and lowering the risk of damage. It is not entirely accurate, although it might be accurate to some extent.
As I mentioned before, there is no restriction on who can have altitude sickness based on gender, age, or physical condition. Being fit, firm, and youthful does not help. Medicine cannot replace the descent.
What You Should Know About Medication for Acute Mountain Sickness?
Consult your doctor about any drugs or health issues you may have before starting any trip. Never withhold medical information from your physician. Do keep in mind that the rural locations where you go hiking do not have doctors or hospitals. “As altitude increases, easy access gets harder and harder.” As such, preparation is essential before visiting a high altitude.
A person is prescribed medication such as
- Nifedipine,
- Dexamethasone,
- or Diamox (Acetazolamide)
if they begin to experience altitude sickness.
Planning to go for trekking at higher altitude? Know about Complete Trekking Kit that includes Emergency Supplies for Altitude Sickness as well.
Summing Up
We sincerely hope you found our blog post on altitude sickness and its treatment enjoyable. While we certainly do not want to frighten you, we do want you to be aware of the warning signs and take extra precautions if you plan to travel higher than 2500 meters. Please see your doctor right away if you suspect you may have altitude sickness! We hope you will stay safe and receive the necessary assistance now that you are aware of altitude sickness!
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FAQs
Reducing altitude as quickly as possible is the best way to manage altitude sickness. Medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) and more oxygen can also help relieve symptoms.
It is essential to rise gradually so that your body has time to acclimate to the new altitude and help you adjust to it rapidly. Drinking less alcohol, eating a diet heavy in carbohydrates, and staying hydrated can also facilitate the adjustment process.
The three stages of altitude sickness are:
- Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): Mild symptoms like headache, nausea, and dizziness.
- High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): Severe AMS with symptoms like confusion, inability to walk, and coma.
- High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): Fluid buildup in the lungs, causing cough, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
Yes, staying well-hydrated can help reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness by preventing dehydration, which can exacerbate the condition.
To raise your oxygen levels at high altitudes, you can use extra oxygen, remain in a pressured atmosphere, or adopt breathing techniques meant to maximize oxygen intake.
You can avoid altitude sickness by gradually increasing your altitude, taking frequent rest days, drinking plenty of water, eating a diet heavy in carbohydrates, and potentially taking medicine like acetazolamide (Diamox) as a prophylactic strategy.
Recover from altitude sickness by lowering your altitude, sleeping, drinking plenty of water, and, if necessary, taking prescription drugs like acetazolamide. In severe cases, medical treatment may be required.
To avoid high altitude sickness, plan a slow climb, give yourself enough time to acclimate at intermediate heights, drink enough water, eat healthily, and avoid alcohol and strenuous activity during your first several days at high altitude.
The fastest way to cure altitude sickness is to descend to a lower altitude immediately. Supplemental oxygen and medications can also provide rapid relief.
While chocolate is not a cure for altitude sickness, it can provide a quick source of energy and may help improve mood. However, it should not be relied upon as a treatment.
