Altitude sickness is one of the pathological effect of high altitude on humans, caused by acute exposure to low partial pressure of oxygen at high altitude. It occurs above 2,400 meters (8,000 feet) commonly. It presents as a collection of nonspecific symptoms, acquired at high altitude or in low air pressure, resembling a case of “flu, carbon monoxide poisoning, or a hangover”. However, most people can ascend to 2,400 meters (8,000 ft) without difficulty.
In short we can say it as:- Air is always “thinner” at high altitudes. When you go too high and too fast, your body cannot get as much oxygen as it needed. This causes the headache and other symptoms of altitude sickness on us.But As your body gets used to the altitude, the symptoms goes away.
Primary symptoms of AMS:
- Lack of appetite
- nausea
- weakness
- lightheartedness
- Insomnia
- Pins and needles
- Shortness of breath upon exertion
- Nosebleed
- Persistent rapid pulse
- Drowsiness
- General malaise
- swelling of hands, feet, and face.etc
Prevention
The best way to avoid altitude sicknes are as follows:
- Stop and rest where you are.
- Do not go any higher for at least 24 to 48 hours.
- If you have a headache, take paracetamol.
- If you feel sick, take an anti-sickness medicine, such as diamox.
- Make sure you're drinking enough water.
- Do not smoke, drink alcohol, or exercise.
Guides and porters from Mount Mania are very much familiar with this problem and hence their effort to help is enough. All of them are trained with basic medical trainings and hence they certainly can help you.
