1. MOUNTAIN SICKNESS OVERVIEW[/COLOR][/B]
Mountain sickness is an illness that ranges from a mild headache and weariness to a life-threatening build-up of fluid in the lungs or brain at high altitudes.
Every trekker should be aware of the conditions that are likely to occur on the mountain, so necessary preparation and steps should be taken to avoid them.
Hypothermia: Hypothermia is a condition where the normal body temperature of 37°C drops below 35°C. This may be caused by rain, improper clothing, getting wet from perspiration, etc. It is recommended you wear warm clothing that is waterproof and allows for ventilation. Keep yourself active.
Frostbite: Frostbite is, literally, frozen body tissue – usually skin but sometimes deeper – and must be handled carefully to prevent permanent tissue damage or loss. This is a result of low temperatures. It is advisable to bring good warm gloves (with insulation) for the fingers and thick wool socks for the feet as temperatures can drop drastically on the mountain. Acute Mountain Sickness: Headache, fatigue, undue breathlessness on exertion, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, difficulty sleeping and irregular breathing during sleep are the common complaints. These are symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which usually develop during the first 36 hours at altitude and not immediately on arrival. This is a direct result of failure to acclimatize properly. To prevent this, ascend slowly and drink lots of water.
Pulmonary edema: A more serious form of mountain sickness is high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). This illness occurs when fluid builds up within the lungs, a condition that can make breathing extremely difficult. HAPE often comes on quickly. Symptoms include shortness of breath, gurgling sounds from chest, production of frothy white sputum, cough. This is a serious and dangerous condition, you need to advise your guide about your situation and do not attempt going any further up the mountain. Usually it is recommended that you be taken to a lower position. If left untreated, it can progress to respiratory collapse.
2. MEDICAL CONDITION
If you have cardiac problems, high/low blood pressure, pulmonary /respiratory difficulties, it is recommended that you obtain approval from your doctor prior to booking the trek.
3. TREKKING GEAR
It is important to have all necessary trekking gear and clothing for your trek. Some of this can be hired at the park gates, but it’s advisable you bring your own gear.
4. WATER
Avoiding dehydration, we recommend trekkers to consume 2-3 litres of water per day, this also helps with acclimatization.
5. TREKKING PACE
It is recommended that you walk at a slow pace throughout your trek to minimize the risk of mountain sickness. This will also help with acclimatisation. It is important not to exert yourself.
6. FIRST AID KIT
It is necessary you carry your own small first aid kit.
7. BAGGAGE AND WEIGHT LIMIT
Waterproof rucksacks are recommended and the total weight should not exceed 15 kgs. For excess luggage a separate porter will be required, at an additional cost.
8. MEALS
We recommend light foods especially carbohydrates such as rice, bread and cereals. Citrus fruits and bananas are advisable too. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, fats, and rich foods.
We provide the following meals:
Breakfast: Fruit, fruit juice, cereal/porridge, eggs, bread/pancakes, sausages, margarine, jam/honey, tea/coffee/drinking chocolate.
Snacks: Popcorn/peanuts/cookies
Lunch: Boiled egg, sliced carrot and cucumber, sandwiches.
Dinner: Soup, bread, rice/pasta/potato, chicken/meat, mixed vegetables, salad, lentils, fruit salad, and tea/coffee/drinking chocolate.
RECOMMENDED ITEMS for trekking:
Warm Sleeping bag
Waterproof rucksack & daypack
Woollen hat or balaclava
Scarf
Snow-goggles/sunglasses
Gaiters
Boots and light trainers
Waterproof trousers and jacket
Waterproof poncho is useful
Long sleeved shirt
Thermal underwear
Several pairs of socks
Gloves and mittens
Sweaters/jumpers
Small towel and wash kit
Water bottle
First aid kit and insect repellent
Strong Sun protection
Torch (head mounted preferable)
Spare batteries
Whistle
Some plastic bags/bin liners
Walking stick/ski pole
Toiletries
Roll mats