Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is the problem to the people by the low pressure and lack of oxygen in the mountain. There are many people travelling to the high Himalaya but only some people suffer from altitude sickness. Altitude problem should be a huge problem and can kill. Here is the general information about the altitude sickness, what to do to avoid this problem and how can be safe from this? Please read this article before going to the mountain.

What is altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is known as acute mountain sickness (AMS) and high altitude sickness. It is an effect of high altitude for human, caused by the low pressure of oxygen at high Himalayan altitude. There are two types of altitude sickness as high altitude cerebral Edema (HACE) and high altitude pulmonary Edema (HAPE). Altitude sickness can kill if you won't take seriously.

Cerebral Edema and symptoms

It is an effect in the brain by high altitude. A headache, nausea, dizziness, numbness, weakness, vomiting and double vision are the main symptoms of this effect and lost imagination.

Pulmonary Edema and symptoms

It is an effect of the lounge by altitude. Shortness of breath even you are resting, frequently coughing, difficulty walking uphill and even on flat, Fever, rapid and irregular heartbeat, chest discomfort, loss apatite, can't sleep and headache at the beginning then start tinged with blood when you have the chough if it goes serious.

How to be safe from altitude sickness?

Before going to high altitude, you need to be well prepared mentally and physically. Make strong mind and stop thinking about altitude sickness, Walk slow however you feel comfortable to walk, drink plenty of clean and purify water, keep warm yourself, avoid alcohol and smoke, they may effect on brain and lounge and don't go directly to the very high altitude.

Medications

Main medicine of altitude sickness is descending. Diamox is a pill for altitude but don't be depended on it. Having Diamox and keep continue to higher places is not a smart idea. After having Diamox, if still, you have the problem then descend as soon as possible. Don't forget to drink more water after Diamox, it can make you dehydrate. Have garlic soup, it helps a bit. If you have very difficult then don't stay on the mountain for a long time, inform your insurance and come back to the hospital as soon as possible.

Note: If you can't sleep in altitude, never try to use sleeping pills to sleep and if you feel altitude don't stay or sleep alone. Always inform your guide about your problems.