Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
PREVENTION
If you are driving up from Kathmandu, you will experience rapid altitude gain. An itinerary
that takes you straight up to Everest Base Camp is unwise; plan to see it on your way back
if possible. The best way to prevent AMS is to avoid rapid ascents to high altitudes. If you
fly into Lhasa, take it easy for at least three days; this is enough for most travellers to get
over any initial ill-effects.
To prevent acute mountain sickness:
Ascend slowly. Have frequent rest days, spending two to three nights at each rise of
1000m. If you reach a high altitude by trekking, acclimatisation takes place gradually and
you are less likely to be affected than if you fly or drive directly to high altitude.
Trekkers should bear in mind the climber's adage of 'climb high, sleep low'. It is always
wise to sleep at a lower altitude than the greatest height that's reached during the day.
Once above 3000m, care should be taken not to increase the sleeping altitude by more
than 400m per day.
Drink extra fluids. Tibet's mountain air is cold and dry, and moisture is lost as you
breathe. Evaporation of sweat may occur unnoticed and result in dehydration.
Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of dehydration, and don't smoke.
Avoid sedatives.
When trekking, take a day off to rest and acclimatise if feeling overtired. If you or anyone
else in your party is having a tough time, make allowances for unscheduled stops.
Don't push yourself when climbing up to passes; rather, take plenty of breaks. You can
usually get over the pass as easily tomorrow as you can today. Try to plan your itinerary
so that long ascents can be divided into two or more days. Given the complexity and un-
known variables involved with AMS and acclimatisation, trekkers should always err on
the side of caution and ascend mountains slowly.
TREATMENT
Treat mild symptoms by resting at the same altitude until recovery, usually a day or two.
Take paracetamol or acetaminophen for headaches. If symptoms persist or become worse,
however,
immediate
descent is necessary. Even 500m can help.
The most effective treatment for severe AMS is to get down to a lower altitude as quickly
as possible. In less severe cases the victim will be able to stagger down with some support;
in other cases they may need to be carried down. Whatever the case, any delay could be
fatal.
