TRAVELING AT HIGH ALTITUDES
On many of our trekking tours, it goes high. Traveling at high altitudes often allow unique experiences. However, the height should always be treated with respect. In increasing amount of oxygen is decreasing (the oxygen content of the air remains the same), our bodies can absorb less oxygen and therefore it is possible to suffer from altitude sickness.
MOUNTAIN SICKNESS
The first symptoms may be shortness of breath, etc., headache, fatigue, poor sleep, poor appetite. Upon arrival at high altitudes (above 3000 meters), these symptoms may occur temporarily, but they usually disappear after 1 to 2 days.
The incidence of altitude sickness symptoms has less to do with age or the personal fitness, but much more with the speed of the ascent to high altitudes and their own behavior. Our programs are very carefully put together in order to allow an easy acclimatization. But even so, it is possible that trip participants are rarely as strong altitude sickness that eventually the journey must even be canceled..
THERAPY
In an ongoing, mild form of altitude sickness (slight but persistent headache, little sleep, etc.) should if possible a rest day without climbing are turned on. In most cases, the victims recover completely and be able to continue the tour. In such a case, headache agents can reduce the discomfort associated with the active ingredient, ibuprofen or any Diamox. On many trekking group we lead with an extra horse. If someone feels not fit, you can also ride a distance, if permitted by the terrain.
People with severe headache or signs of brain dysfunction must descend (recommended at least 1000 meters in altitude). Dexamethasone can reduce the discomfort.
Acute are the Höhenlungen- and altitude cerebral edema. Extreme shortness of breath, dry cough and sudden drop in performance may indicate a high altitude pulmonary edema. In this case, nifedipine may be employed.
Walking and standing uncertainties may indicate a height edema. The treatment can be done with dexamethasone (possibly Diamox).
SAFETY MEASURES
Some of the Treks that Makalu Adventure has designed involves crossing over high passes some over 5000 meters. It is the utmost important for us to provide safety equipment. Some of the equipments that we provide are listed below.
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
In all of our group tours this is standard:
- Extensive emergency pharmacy and pulse oximeter
- Gammow Bag
Many trekking at high altitudes, this is usually this:
- Height pressure chambers of PAC
- Satellite phones Thuraya
Experienced Swiss Tour Guides
Many of our Swiss tour guides have a very great experience when traveling at high altitudes, some were even dozens of times in the Himalayas. Nevertheless, we form every year more in medical and height issues.
Vaccinations
No vaccinations are mandatory for the Himalayan countries. Please consult on before leaving your house or tropical doctor vaccinations or contact us.
