Everest Base Camp Trek Altitude Sickness : An Overview
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most breathtaking trekking destinations in the world. And why not? It takes you to the foot of the tallest peak in the world, the magnificent Mt. Everest(8,848 m). It’s something every traveller around the world dreams of being at least once in their lifetime. This trek journey is one of the most significant experiences that trekkers can gain to keep wonderful memories of Nepal. Upon reaching the Everest Base Camp, you can view the most amazing mountain peaks of Nepal, which include Nuptse (7,861 m), Pumori (7,161 m), and Khumbutse (6,640 m). Sadly, you cannot get a complete view of the great Mt. Everest due to the surrounding terrain. The EBC trek is one of the toughest trek among other treks in Nepal, such as the Annapurna Base Camp trek, Manaslu trek, Annapurna Circuit trek and others.
What is Altitude Sickness ?
Altitude Sickness is a common and well-known condition among trekkers. It generally means a shortage of breath that people experience when reaching high-altitude places where the oxygen level is significantly lower. In other words, it is also known as AMS(Acute Mountain Sickness). This problem is generally faced by trekkers when they trek to a place of high altitude. These high-altitude places are deprived of a high level of oxygen, so people become victims of altitude sickness.
How dangerous is the Everest Base Camp Trek Altitude Sickness?
Compared to other low altitude treks like Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek, Ghorepani Trek, the Everest Base Camp trek is widely famous for being a challenging high-altitude trek destination in Nepal. It stands at an altitude of 5,364 meters. Once you reach Namche Bazaar(3,440m) , the feeling of altitude sickness starts to begin. Trekkers can find symptoms like headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. A safety measure is a must to follow like taking proper acclimatization as you go towards the summit of Everest Base Camp.
Common Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Some common symptoms of Altitude Sickness have been listed below:
- Chronic Migraines
- Physical Sensation
- Vertigo
- Shortness of breath
- Insomnia/Sleeplessness
- Loss of appetite
- Dullness
What precautions should be taken to avoid it?
Some of the precautions to avoid the Everest Base Camp Altitude Sickness have been pointed out and explained below:
Physically fit : Trekkers should be physically fit before they even decide to go trekking. They should do complete workouts at the gym to maintain their body. This will help a lot in supporting the body while walking in the high-altitude areas. They can go up and down the stairs anywhere possible to be comfortable with walking upward and backward.
Meditation : Meditation is yet another thing to do for trekkers. Trekkers should make sure that they mentally fit and well prepared. Meditation can help a lot in making your mind clear and balanced.
Get adequate acclimatization : While joining the Everest Base Camp, trekkers are probably advised to get acclimatization days upon reaching Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. During this, a complete rest should be taken, which will make your body during your walk in the higher elevation.
Stay hydrated : Water is a very essential part of the body. Staying hydrated the whole day can boost the body's metabolism of the body. This can make your body adjust properly if you go around the high altitude area.
Take a nutritious diet : Making yourself fit involves taking a diet that includes good sources of vitamins, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and others. So, trekkers should take enough healthy fruits and vegetables containing these substances. They can even take supplementary capsules.
Stay away from alcohol & smoking : Things like alcohol & smoking are not only bad for your health but also weaken the immune system of the body. Hence, it can create problem for your body during the phase where your body needs to acclimate to the high altitude area.
Take medication : Trekkers should try to visit doctor prior joining the trek expedition. Doctors can provide proper & complete advise inn fighting with the altitude sickness. They can also prescribe any medicines in the for of tablets which can be taken by trekkers during the trekking. Such medicines include Acetazolamide (Diamox), Dexamethasone, and Nifedipine.
Concluding,
To conclude, I am highly hopeful that this article benefits all trekkers who are looking forward to trek Everest Base Camp. If you are a new trekker, then this will give you proper guidance to make solid preparations in advance to ensure a smooth trek. For the experienced one, you must already be familiar with some points and make better plans for upcoming treks.
