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Altitude sickness is the effect that walking to high altitudes can have on the body in the form of hypoxia (insufficient oxygen to the blood, brain or tissue, and/or the build-up of fluid on the lungs or brain), cold and dehydration. If it does not clear, walk to a lower altitude. Keep warm. Drink plenty of liquids whilst hiking – and avoid alcohol.
Altitude sickness is particularly important for treks that begin at high altitudes; Everest treks starting from Lukla at 2,600m. To combat this, a rest day on reaching 3,000m and 4,000m is not just a suggestion, it is also a safety requirement. Keeping this in mind we have designed our Everent Base Camp Trek itinerary that include acclimitization days, ensuring your body adjust perfectly before you move towards the base of world's highest peak. If you want more luxury and comfort we also have Everest Base Camp with helicopter return, EBC to luxury lodge.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek reaches to the altitude of 5,416m while crossing the Thorong La Pass, that makes altitude sickness more concern. In this trek Trekkers gradually ascend through different villages such as Chame, Pisang and Manang, so acclimatization day is strongly recommended in Manang before heading towards the pass. Proper rest, hydration and slow ascend are essential to complete the trek in a safe way and reduce the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). If you want to visit Annapurna region we have other alternative such as Annapurna Base Camp trek(It also have mutiple options like in 7days, 9days and 12 days according to your preference), which balance trekking distance with rest periods.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is the most demanding trek among the trekkers. It has the longest pass trek in Nepal crossing the challenging Larke Pass at 5,106m(which is also the longest pass in Nepal). Because of rapid altitude gain in the remote village mountain terrain, acclimatization is very important for trekkers to adapt before crossing the pass.
Lantang valley trek is considered as a moderate altitude trek, but trekkers can still experience mild altitude symptoms as the trail ascends above 3,000m toward Kyanjin Gompa(3,870m). Taking preventative measures from the beginning of the trek can lower the chance of altitude sickness.
The altitude sickness has some basic symptoms.
If these symptoms go worse, the person soon loses the sense of touching, hearing and visibility. If this goes more critical the person may die shortly.
Dry air contains 20.9% oxygen. As you climb to higher altitudes, air density decreases (air “expands” as atmospheric pressure decreases due to the decrease in the volume of earth’s air above you). Consequently the percentage of inspired oxygen in the lungs decreases: at 5 500m it is only 50% of that at sea-level (30% at Everest’s summit).
Generally the body can adjust to these changes – but you need to assist the process and consciously help your body to adapt. The effects of increasing altitude (and the possible onset of altitude sickness) frequently begin to be felt above 2 500m. From 3 000m the guideline is not to rise more than 300m a day and if possible “climb high and sleep low”.
Acute (mild) mountain sickness (AMS) is recognized by the onset of one or more of: headaches, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, loss of appetite/stomach aches and difficulty sleeping. You may feel worse at night when breathing rates generally decrease.
Treatment for AMS
The use of headache tablets and the diuretic Diamox (increases breathing rate and helps remove fluids) frequently sooths or solves the problem.
If symptoms remain severe, descend at least 200m and rest. Drop further if need be. [Start taking Diamox a day or two before reaching 3 000m]
High- altitude pulmonary oedema (HAPE) is a dangerous build-up of fluid in the lung’s air pockets: this prevents the absorption of air and distribution of oxygen to the body.
Symptoms: usually develop after two or three days at altitude and include excessive breathlessness (even at rest) and a higher heart rate compared to fellow hikers. You may cough, show white or pink sputum, blue lips.
Treatment for HAPE
Evacuate to a lower altitude for additional oxygen and air pressure. Visit the medical center for the treatment. HAPE can prove to be fatal in hours.
High altitude cerebral oedema (HACE) is a dangerous build up of fluid in the brain causing swell. You may notice it in yourself or in fellow trekkers.
Symptoms: irrational behaviour, confusion, an inability to walk on a straight line, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, and loss of consciousness.
Treatment for HACE
Supply oxygen or carry the patient rapidly to a lower altitude. HACE can prove to be fatal in hours.
The prevention method is much easier than that of treatment. Follow the following method on every high-altitude trek:
| Climb Slowly Never climb more than 300- 350m altitude per day above 3,000m | Rest Days Take an acclimatization day when you reach 3,000m and again in 4,000m |
| Drink Water Stay hydrated during the journey of your trek. Mainly avoid drinking alcohol. | Tell your Guide Be aware of what your body is saying to you – and inform your guide and fellow trekkers of any irregular feelings. |
| Good health, a great trek and happy memories are more important than a “macho attitude” – and the possibility of fatal consequences. |
| Mardi Himal Trek
Perfect for beginners. Amazing views of Fishtail mountain with lower altitude risk. View Details → |
Poon Hill Trek
A short 4-5 day trek. The best sunrise views in the Annapurna region. View Details → |
| Annapurna Base Camp Trek
We can reach ABC within 8days and can view Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), and Hiunchul View Details → |
Manasalu Tsum Valley Trek
Trek which is famous for untouched natural beauty, Tibetan Buddhist culture and breathtaking views of mountain. View Details → |
| Tip: If you want acclimatization days in any trek we can change the itinerary. Your comfort is our priority. |
Can I get altitude sickness below 3,000m?
There is very less chance of getting altitude sickness below 2,500m but it is still possible in some people. In most of the trekkers effects of altitude sickness can be seen above 3,000m only.
Does being fit protect me from altitude sickness?
The answer is No. Physical fitness does not protect you from altitude sickness. Staying hydrated, not pushing you hard every day to climb up(only 300m above 3,000m), acclimatization days and taking preventive measures can somehow prevent you from altitude sickness.
Should I take Diamox before my trek?
Many doctors recommend starting Diamox one day before reaching 3000m. (remember: Always consult your doctor before taking any medicine. Diamox is not suitable for everyone).
| Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a doctor before trekking at high altitude or taking medications such as Diamox. |
