Altitude Sickness

During trekking in Nepal, the high altitude areas are usually visited and the oxygen concentration in the air is much less. The scenery of the Himalayas is spectacular but every trekker should be sensitive to the problem of Altitude Sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Your health is paramount at Buddys Journey pvt. Ltd. To have a healthy and enjoyable experience in the Himalayas, we offer quality guides, planning and safety provision.

What Is Altitude Sickness?

The altitude sickness is a common one which happens in the altitude that is above 2,500 meters (8, 200 feet) because of less oxygen supply. It may happen to anyone, no matter what is the age, fitness, or experience in the trekking.

Typical Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) Symptoms.

It is important to note the symptoms at an early stage of prevention and treatment. Common signs include:

• Headache (it is frequently the initial symptom)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness and fatigue
• Even during rest, shortness of breath.
• Loss of appetite
• Ambiguity in sleeping or sleep disturbance.

The symptoms normally occur 6-24 hours after the occurrence of rising to a better altitude. Otherwise, AMS may evolve into severe diseases like High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), and High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), which demand medical intervention.

Prevention Advice – How to Minimize the Risk.

Most of the altitude sickness can be prevented by adhering to the right acclimatization guidelines:

• Gradually Climbing: Please do not exceed 500 meters in one day when over 2500 meters and add some frequent acclimatization days.
• Keep Hydrated: Take a minimum of 3-4 liters of water in a day. Use non-caffeine that will lead to dehydration.
• Avoid Alcohol and Smoking: Both slow down the uptake of oxygen and expose one to the risk of AMS.
• Consume light and healthy Food: Eat warm and fresh-cooked food that contains high carbohydrates. Avoid heavy or oily foods.
• Listening to the Body: slows down, takes a break or halts when the symptoms occur. Always do not strain to keep up with others.

Every trek by Buddys Journey Pvt. Ltd. is well designed and gradual in the pace of gaining altitude and rest days are planned to enable the trekker to acclimatize.

Emergency Protocol – In Case Immediate Action is required

In severe but infrequent instances of this altitude sickness may develop to:

• HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema): Intracranial edema.
• HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema): Retention of fluid in the lungs.

Warning signs include:

• Diffusion or loss of coordination.
• Dyspnea at rest with extreme dyspnea.
• Chest tightness
• Lip and fingertip (cyanosis) of a blue color.

Such conditions need urgent down descent, oxygen therapy, and even helicopter rescue.

We have highly trained guides in Buddys Journey Pvt. Ltd. who have been trained in altitude emergency response. We carry first aid kits that are well prepared, get calls with the local health facilities and arrange helicopter rescue in case of emergency.

Your Safety Comes First

The Himalayas are impressive and respectable. It is possible that being informed and prepared is the key to the difference between a safe trip and a risky one. We never compromise your health and safety at the expense of reaching the summit at the Buddys Journey Pvt. Ltd.

Your health is as any place an important thing.