Altitude sickness while trekking in Nepal

Trekking in Nepal is an experience that one will never forget. The mountains are mighty, beautiful, and inspiring. However, altitude is not something to be taken lightly. Every year, trekkers on routes such as Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley suffer from altitude sickness. Some recover quickly. Others need to be evacuated urgently. 

If you are planning a trekking adventure in Nepal, knowing about altitude sickness could save your adventure and your life. 

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), occurs when your body is not able to adjust or adapt quickly enough to reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes. In Nepal, altitude sickness becomes a risk at about 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). However, most trekking trails in Nepal, including Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley, go above 4,000 meters, where the oxygen level is much lower. At an altitude of 5,000 meters, the body gets only 40% of the oxygen it would get at sea level, which can impact normal body functions and lead to a variety of symptoms. 

Why High Altitude Affects the Body 

When a person moves to higher altitudes, the air pressure decreases, and the amount of oxygen in the air is lower. The body responds in this situation  by increasing breathing and heart rates to ensure that the muscles and organs receive sufficient oxygen. In the long run, the body adapts by producing more red blood cells to ensure efficient oxygen transport. But when a person moves to higher altitudes too quickly, the body does not have time to adapt, and this leads to altitude sickness. 

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness 

Mild Symptoms 

Mild altitude sickness is very common and can be treated effectively if proper care is taken. The symptoms include: 

• Headache 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Dizziness 
• Fatigue 
• Loss of appetite 
• Difficulty sleeping 

These symptoms occur within  6 to 24 hours after a person reaches the higher altitude. 

Severe Symptoms: HAPE and HACE 

Severe altitude sickness can be dangerous and life threatening. The two most dangerous forms of altitude sickness are: 

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)  Fluid is built in the lungs. Symptoms include coughing, difficulty breathing while resting, tightness in the chest, and discoloration of the lips and fingertips. 

High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)  Brain swelling. Symptoms include confusion, loss of coordination, difficulty speaking, severe headache, and unusual behavior. 

In both HAPE and HACE, the only treatment is to descend to a lower altitude as soon as possible. Failure to do so can lead to life-threatening complications. 

At What Elevation Does the Risk Increase? 

The risk of altitude sickness is greater at higher elevations: 

• Below 2,500 meters: Low risk 
• 2,500-3,500 meters: Moderate risk 
• 3,500-5,000 meters: High risk 
• Above 5,000 meters: Very high risk 

The most common trekking trails in the Himalayas of Nepal are in the high-risk areas. 

Who Can Get Altitude Sickness? 

Altitude sickness can occur in anyone, regardless of age, strength, and prior trekking experience. Being physically fit does not rule out the risk of altitude sickness. The major risk factors include: 

• Going up too quickly 
• Missing acclimatization days 
• Dehydration 
• Drinking alcohol 

Prevention Strategies 

Ascend Slowly  - The best method of avoiding altitude sickness is to ascend slowly. When above 3,000 meters, it is advisable not to go higher than 300-500 meters in a day. This will give your body time to acclimatize. 

Include Acclimatization Days - Rest days are a must when trekking. Trekkers can ascend to higher altitudes during the day, but it is advisable to descend to a lower altitude to sleep. The “climb high, sleep low” method is very effective in avoiding altitude sickness. 

Stay Hydrated and Eat Well - Drink at least three to four liters of water in a day. Hydrating your body will enable it to function properly and will also help you avoid headaches. Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they will make your condition worse. Even if you are not hungry, it is advisable to eat small meals to keep your body energized. 

Medication - In some cases, doctors may prescribe Acetazolamide (Diamox) to help your body acclimatize faster. This will help you avoid altitude sickness, but it should never be used as a substitute for proper pacing, hydration, and acclimatization. 

What to Do If Symptoms Occur 

If symptoms occur, stop climbing immediately and rest for at least 24 hours. If your symptoms are alleviated, you can continue to climb slowly. But if your symptoms are not alleviated or get worse, descend at least 500-1,000 meters immediately. For severe cases, immediate descent is the only effective treatment. 

Emergency Evacuation in Nepal 

Helicopter evacuation is possible in the Everest and Annapurna regions, but it may be costly. It is important to purchase travel insurance that includes high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation before embarking on any trek.  

Important Safety Considerations 

Trekkers should trek at a moderate pace, listen to their body, and inform the guides or trekking companions of any symptoms immediately. There is no summit, pass, or viewpoint that is worth the risk of your health. Proper planning, discipline, and awareness are essential for a safe and enjoyable trekking experience in Nepal. 

With proper planning, gradual ascent, hydration, and attention to warning signs, altitude sickness can be effectively managed. By respecting the mountain environment and adhering to safety considerations, trekkers can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Himalayas to the fullest. 

Conclusion:

Altitude sickness is one of the most dangerous risks that trekkers face in Nepal, but with proper planning and care for your body, you can control it effectively. Proper planning for your trek, staying hydrated, and including acclimatization days in your plan are crucial for a safe and enjoyable trek. The right place to stay can also make a huge difference in your planning and recovery. Trekkers Home, with its cozy and comfortable stay in Kathmandu, is the perfect place to plan your trek, arrange your gear, and get acclimatized before entering the mountains. Whether you are trekking to Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, or Langtang Valley, staying at Trekkers Home will ensure that you begin your trek well-rested, well-informed, and ready to enjoy the Himalayas safely.