Altitude Sickness

Feeling out of breath and nauseous is typically referred to as the sensation of feeling unwell after being at a higher altitude. The absence of the body adjusting itself to the harsher, oxygen-lacking environment is a major contributor as well.

The symptoms may be ‘mild’ however the sign of being unwell implies suffering, the first onset of these symptoms can be felt above 2500m after sea level, the condition is also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Being breathless, headaches, and fatigue are all common ailments that are faced, however as the individual progresses further upwards these typically lead to more serious issues such as High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which, if medical assistance isn’t provided on immediate notice, can prove to be fatal.

Gradual ascent is one of the most effective ways of tackling AMS and to do so it is common for beginners to add an extra day in a low-altitude region before going even higher. Also, the most basic and most important need is water intake because the lack of it makes the onset of AMS feel even worse. Yes, Water and refrain from alcohol.

For those who have a slight feeling of AMS or are simply feeling uneasy, medications such as Acetazolamide (Diamox) can be used. Nevertheless, in my view, it’s an idea that should never be practiced to use any sort of medicine unless approved by a medical expert.

In a case where AMS symptoms become worse or do not go away, make sure you descend to a lower altitude. If you start feeling uneasy, it is very important to be alert and listen carefully to the signals provided by your body. And try to find an altitude sickness-preventing and treating guide and go trekking with him.