altitude sickness

Altitude Sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness / AMS) is caused by a rapid increase in elevation where air pressure and oxygen levels drop. In Nepal’s high Himalayas, where many treks exceed 2,500 meters (8,200 feet), recognizing the signs is vital for safe mountain travel.

• Mild to Moderate (AMS): Characterized by hangover-like symptoms—headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and disrupted sleep.
• Severe (HAPE): Occurs when fluid builds up in the lungs, causing severe breathlessness, chest tightness, and a persistent cough.
• Severe (HACE): Occurs when fluid causes brain swelling, leading to extreme confusion, loss of coordination, slurred speech, and loss of consciousness.

Core Safety Rules:

1. Treat any sickness at high altitude as AMS until proven otherwise.
2. Never continue climbing with active symptoms.
3. Descend immediately if symptoms worsen—even dropping 300 to 500 meters can make a life-saving difference.

Prevention: Ascend gradually (300–500m per day above 2,500m), schedule acclimatization days, stay well-hydrated (3–4L of water daily), avoid alcohol, and consult a doctor about preventive medications like Diamox.