High Altitude Sickness

High Altitude sickness is known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) which can turn fatal if not treated upon recognizing the symptoms. AMS is the effect of altitude on those who ascend too fast to elevations of 3000m or above. A symptom of mountain sickness is headache, loss of appetite and sleeplessness. One can encounter such sickness no matter if he/she looks physically young, strong and fit. Medicine itself is no substitute unless patients suffering from such sickness are immediately rushed to lower elevations. A doctor may provide temporary care with medication and oxygen in local area but the patient must be brought down immediately in order to escape danger.

The stunning Himalaya begins where other mountain ranges leave off. Everest Base Camp is at the foot of huge mountains, yet it is 1,000 meters higher than the highest point in Europe. Your body can adjust to these altitudes, but only if manage enough time. Being in a hurry in the mountains of Nepal can be fatal! It also seems that unnecessary efforts at altitude (e.g. carrying a heavy pack) may dispose some people to altitude illness. So it may be advisable to carry a light pack and use a porter.

Prevention

1. Take an Acclimatization day- After 1000m or every 3days of ascent; stay one more night for acclimatization.
2. Do not make a RAPID ASCENT; don’t go too fast too high.
3. No Smoking, sleeping pills or alcohol
4. Drink more liquid 4 – 5 liters a day clean water boiled or treated/soup/juice, etc
5. After 3000m, only attempt 300m. Of ascent a day.
6. Do not travel alone.
7. Climb higher sleep lower

Treatment

1. As soon as possible to move at low altitude is the best Medicine; do not wait for the Helicopter.
2. Keep warm to victim

Medicine:

1. Oxygen
2.  Diamox for AMS 125 mg. before dinner, for sleeping problems if feeling suffocated.
3. Nafedipine for HAPE
4. Steroids / Dexamethasone