What Is High Altitude Sickness, Its Causes & How Can You Deal With It To Make Travel Easier?

Recently, a 54-year-old man died of high altitude sickness and hypoxemia in Lahaul-Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh. According to the local police, he fell sick due to sudden respiratory distress while returning from Leh along with his family. Many reports showed that while travelling at a very high altitude, low oxygen levels pose a risk, especially for people with pre-existing respiratory problems. Is there any way to overcome this? Scroll on to find out.

What Causes High Altitude Sickness?

High Altitude Sickness, often also called Acute Mountain Sickness, occurs when the body cannot adapt quickly enough to the decreased oxygen levels at heights. It typically occurs above 8,000 feet. While it is treatable, severe cases (like the one noted above) can turn severe. If timely intervention and medical assistance aren’t provided, it can also pose a life-threatening concern.

Here are some common symptoms of High Altitude Sickness –

1. Headache
2. Dizziness
3. Nausea
4. Fatigue
5. Vomiting
6. Shortness of breath
7. Trouble sleeping

In severe cases, High Altitude Sickness can turn into High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). They take up to five days to appear and are medical emergencies that require medical assistance.

Also Read: 52% Indian Travellers Prefer Quieter & Cooler Destinations Over Popular Ones This Summer

How To Deal With It While Travelling?

According to experts, the risk of High Altitude Sickness increases with rapid ascents, physical exertion at high altitudes, and lack of acclimatisation. To prevent it, they suggest simple steps like gradual ascent, proper hydration, and allowing time for your body to acclimate.

When given time, the body gradually adapts to altitude-related changes. It also allows your body to level the oxygen you get with each breath at a height. When you deny this time to your body, High Altitude Sickness is inevitable. In some cases, medications may also be the only answer.

Also Read: From New Routes To Better Travel, Here Are IATA’s Key Updates On Expanding Air Networks

We hope this information was helpful to you.

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