Altitude sickness, often known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a particularly important medical consideration while Trekking in Nepal. Altitude sickness means the effect of altitude on those who ascend too rapidly to elevations above 3000 meters. The initial symptoms of AMS are as follows:
Nausea, vomiting
Loss of appetite
Insomnia/sleeplessness
Persistent headache
Dizziness, light headedness, confusion
Disorientation, drunken gait
Weakness, fatigue, lassitude, heavy legs
Slight swelling of hands and face
Breathlessness and Breathing irregularity
Reduced urine output
These symptoms are to be taken very seriously. In case of an appearance of any of the above symptoms any further ascent should be avoided; otherwise more serious, even life-threatening problems can occur. The only cure for Altitude Sickness is to descend to lower elevations immediately. Acclimatization by ascending to no more than 300 to 500 meters per day above 3000 meters, and the proper amount of rest and re hydration are the best methods for prevention of AMS. If you follow the simple advice of our trained guides, you won’t have to worry about complications from mountain sickness. We design our tours to ensure clients are ready for high altitude sickness, and arrange alternative itineraries for those at risk.
The Trekkers Medical Kit The Trekker Medical Kit – The suggested list includes prescription items, so consultation with a physician is necessary.
If crossing malarial areas: Malarial prophylactics and mosquito repellent.
Wound disinfectant: Moleskin, second skin or cloth adhesive tape.
Adhesive strips: Band-aids in different sizes.
Gauze pads and rolls: elastic bandage.
Thermometer
Analgesics: Aspirin or Tylenol, Tylenol with codine.
Anti-inflammatory. Ibuprofen
Antibiotics: Ciprofloxacin, Bactrim DS or Septra DS, Erythromycin, Gentamycin eyedrops, any skin antibiotic.
Anti-diarrholes: Lomotil, Pepto-Bismol, Imodium.
Anti-nausea drug: Pheregan, Compazine
Anthistamine: Benadryl
Decongestant: Sudafed
For High altitude: Diomax