Amidst the chaos of city life, we often choose to enjoy a thrilling mountain trip. It can be for any reason – adventure, a spiritual escape, or simply to be close to nature. But as stunning as the views may be, they can come with an invisible threat – altitude sickness.
Altitude sickness may be highly underestimated, but this condition can be life-threatening. Before you pack your bags and lace up those trekking boots, you should know everything about altitude sickness, ways to identify and treat it.
What is Altitude Sickness?
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a condition that occurs when your body doesn’t adjust well to the lower oxygen levels at high elevations. It usually starts above 8,000 feet (2,500 meters).
The higher you go, the thinner the air becomes. It means oxygen level decreases. For some, this change is barely noticeable. For others, it can cause a range of uncomfortable and even dangerous symptoms. Its symptoms usually appear within 6 to 24 hours of reaching a higher altitude.
Common Altitude Sickness Symptoms
Since many love a hike to mountains, it is important to be aware of common altitude sickness symptoms listed here:
- Headache (often dull and persistent)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty sleeping
- Fatigue or weakness
- Shortness of breath, especially during exertion
- Rapid heartbeat
If you ignore these symptoms, it can turn into more severe problems like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), both of which are medical emergencies.
Who is at the Risk of Altitude Sickness?
Anyone can get altitude sickness, even if you are fit and the most experienced traveller. Your age, gender, or fitness level doesn’t make you immune to this. However, you are more likely at risk if:
- You ascend too quickly without acclimatising
- You have had altitude sickness in the past
- You exert yourself heavily soon after reaching a high altitude
- You are dehydrated or drinking alcohol
Altitude Sickness Medication
If you are planning to go to a high-altitude destination like Leh, Ladakh, or any other mountains, it is wise to talk to a doctor. They may prescribe altitude sickness medication such as:
- Acetazolamide (Diamox): The most common preventive medicine. It helps your body adapt faster to high altitudes by speeding up acclimatisation.
- Dexamethasone: A steroid used to reduce brain swelling in severe cases.
- Ibuprofen or Paracetamol: To manage headaches or mild discomfort.
Note: Never take any medication yourself. Always consult a healthcare professional for dosage and suitability.
How to Prevent Altitude Sickness?
If you ever experience altitude sickness, here is how you can prevent it:
- Go Up Slowly: Don’t climb more than 1,000 feet (300 meters) per day once above 8,000 feet.
- Acclimatise Properly: Spend 1-2 days at intermediate altitudes before going higher.
- Hydrate Well: Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Eat Light but Frequently: High-carbohydrate meals help fuel your body better in thin air.
- Listen to Your Body: If you feel unwell, stop. Pushing through can worsen your condition.
Altitude Sickness Treatments
When on mountains, if you or someone in your group starts to experience high altitude sickness, manage it this way:
- Stay at your current altitude until symptoms go away.
- Drink water, avoid exertion, and keep warm.
- If symptoms get worse, descend by at least 500-1,000 meters.
- Use oxygen if available. Supplemental oxygen can help ease breathing and improve oxygen levels.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and take prescribed medications.
Must-Haves in Your Bag to Avoid Altitude Sickness
Before you climb, it is important to pack essentials to deal with altitude sickness. Here are some things to pack in your bag:
- Water
- Electrolytes
- Warm layers
- Sunglasses
- High carb snacks
- Medications (for headaches and nausea)
Read More: Pulmonary Hypertension Treatment: A Path to Easier Breathing and Better Living
Summing Up
No doubt mountains are majestic, mysterious, and magnetic, bringing inner peace and calmness. But, you need to be careful while going up on the higher altitudes. It can happen to anyone irrespective of your health and fitness. It is a physiological response that can hit anyone, anytime.
So, if you’re planning a trek to mountains, treat altitude with caution and awareness. With the right preparation, knowledge, and altitude sickness treatments in mind, you can enjoy your trip to the fullest.
