For trekkers, especially those at high altitudes, the air at the Himalayas can be a concern due to altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). It arises when the body takes too long to acclimatize to the low pressure regions causing headaches, nauseous tendencies, feeling light headed, and extreme tiredness.
Steps to Avoid:
- Gaining Height Slowly: Do not cross the mark of 3000 meters in altitude suddenly, try to do no more than 300-500 meters in a day.
- Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink a lot of fluids to help the body’s adaptation to the surroundings.
- Take extra rest days: Take time off at higher altitudes to allow the body to adjust to the change in the environment.
- Understanding the symptoms: Headaches and lightheadedness along with mild difficulty in breathing are warning signs and symptoms. If things go downside, lower the altitude immediately.
Cure:
- The best way to treat AMS is to go to a lower altitude.
- Treatment: Pain relievers such as acetaminophen function to relieve some symptoms. If it is more serious, a doctor could prescribe some medicines like Diamox.
The beautiful thing about Nepal is its mountainous terrains and evergreen forests. For those wishing to travel the beautiful landscapes, people specifically need to focus on pacing themselves to trek safely.