[ad_1]
Chinmay Sharma, 27, from Muzaffarnagar, died recently in Leh due to health complications caused by lack of oxygen. The techie was on a solo bike trip in Ladakh. He suffered breathing problems and eventually died in hospital. We spoke to experts to understand altitude sickness and the reasons behind Sharma’s death. This is also a must for travellers visiting high altitudes to be aware of.
What is this?
“Altitude sickness is nothing but acute mountain sickness. It usually occurs when the body struggles to adjust to the low oxygen levels at high altitudes. This certainly comes to the fore at altitudes above 6000 feet. As the barometric pressure changes and oxygen decreases, blood flow to the brain may increase, leading to hangover-like symptoms,” says Dr Kunal Bahrani, Clinical Director and HOD, Neurology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad.
Dr Natwar Singh Rathore, ENT Consultant at Shalby Hospital, Jaipur says, “If altitude sickness is not treated promptly, it can develop into more serious conditions like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). The solution is to pay close attention to your health and take preventive measures like losing weight. By doing so, you can prevent major problems and enjoy your mountain sojourn safely.”
symptoms
“The symptoms of altitude sickness are headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, light-headedness, extreme tiredness, shortness of breath and insomnia. This usually occurs 6 to 24 hours after reaching high altitude,” says Dr. (Professor) Amit Kumar Sharma, Head of Department and Senior Consultant, ENT, Cochlear Implant and Voice Disorders, Shalby Sanar International Hospitals, Gurugram.
How to Deal With Altitude Sickness
Climate Adaptation: The most effective way to prevent altitude sickness is to ascend slowly. Your body needs time to adapt to the lower oxygen levels at higher altitudes. A good rule of thumb is to sleep no more than 1,500 feet higher than the previous night.
Stay hydrated: Although drinking water alone will not prevent altitude sickness, it is important to drink enough water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as these can worsen dehydration.
Medicines: If you know you’re at risk for altitude sickness or are climbing rapidly, talk to your doctor about taking medications such as acetazolamide (Diamox) before your trip. These can help speed acclimatization and reduce symptoms.
Listen to your body: If you begin to feel unwell, do not continue. Rest, drink water, and get down immediately if symptoms persist or worsen.
With inputs from Dr. Natwar Singh Rathore
DOS and don’ts:
Take your time when climbing so your body can adjust.
Eat high-carbohydrate foods to provide your body with the energy it needs at high altitudes.
get enough sleep and avoid strenuous exercise on the first day at altitude
Do not ignore the symptoms. If you have severe headache, confusion or shortness of breath, get down immediately
Avoid consuming alcohol and sleeping pills as they can aggravate symptoms by putting pressure on your respiratory system.
[ad_2]
