Going to altitude - climb high, sleep low!

We hope you enjoy the blog from one of our specialist Travel Nurses Cat!

Mountains are some of the most majestic and magical locations on our planet. Mountain tourism attracts around 15 to 20% of global tourism. Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania, has become one the most famous, nontechnical mountains to climb globally. It is accessible via various routes and research prior to booking is vital. One of the main reasons that travellers are unsuccessful at summiting is due to the effects of altitude on the body. To optimise achieving this amazing adventure proper acclimatisation is vital.

Mount Kilimanjaro

As travellers to mountainous regions, we need an awareness of our own health and optimise our wellbeing in these extreme environments. At altitude, as well as challenging terrain and cold to contend with, there is less oxygen in the atmosphere so your body has to work harder. Physiological changes occur when a person lives at altitude, for instance, an increase in their red blood cells, to counter the lower oxygen levels.

Here at Aquamarine Health Clinic, we help advise travellers on how to prepare and understand the impact altitude and the mountain environment have on their health.

Pre-Planning

·      Pre-planning preparation - a good level of fitness and the right equipment are needed for adventures such as climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

·      Certain medical conditions may cause issues at high altitudes. Sometimes we need input from your specialist to make sure we are giving you the best advice.

·      Ensure that travel insurance will cover trips to altitude as extra insurance may need to be taken for visits to high altitude. Air evacuation may not be possible as the air is too thin to support for helicopter flight or the terrain challenging.

·      Don’t forget about other travel health issues for countries such as Tanzania for travel vaccinations.

Travelling to altitude

·      The human body can be affected over 1500m but over 2500m is regarded as high altitude. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, sits at the dazzling height of 5,895 metres.

·      Be aware of signs and symptoms of hypothermia, frostbite and frostnip – also how to prevent these.

·      Ensure you have clean and reliable water sources and high-calorie foods.

·      Good personal hygiene is essential – helping prevent diarrhoea and subsequent dehydration.

·      Sun protection – rays reflect and are more intense at altitude. Don’t forget eye protection.

      Good personal hygiene is essential – helping prevent diarrhoea and subsequent dehydration.

·. One plus point - you don’t need to worry about malaria over 1800m.

 Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

Over 2500m altitude, AMS can occur. This encompasses two potentially life-threatening conditions – High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPE) and High Altitude Cerebral Oedema (HACE)

Symptoms include -

·      Mild/moderate – headache, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, upset stomach, tiredness and shortness of breath

·      HAPE – Fluid in your lungs usually after 2-5 days at altitude; breathlessness at rest, bubbling sounds, excessive tiredness, blue lips/tongue/nails

·      HACE – Swelling of the brain and can occur in hours; severe headache, drowsiness, confusion, irritability and poor coordination.

How to reduce the risk of acute mountain sickness  ·     

Acclimatization is key, so gradually climbing (ideally no more than 500m sleeping elevation) and regular rest days. Therefore, in theory, the longer it takes to ascend, the better acclimatised the trekker should be. Climb high, sleep low!

·      If you have even mild signs of AMS do not go higher until they are resolved

·      If you have ANY severe symptoms you must immediately go lower

·      Don’t fly directly or immediately go to high altitudes

·      Avoid dehydration/alcohol and smoking and have a high calorie diet

·      Acetazolamide (Diamox) can help acclimatization and reduce AMS, but should be started before ascent. Seek specialist advice and always have a trial dose at sea level.

Travelling to mountainous regions can be some of the most exhilarating and fantastic experiences of your life, however understanding the environment and keeping yourself well is also paramount. Which ever mountain you may choose to climb enjoy the incredible , exhilarating experience of being in that environment but make the most of it by planning ahead and taking expert advice. Happy travels from the team at Aquamarine!