High Altitude: Acclimatization and Illnesses

[Yogesh Sarkar]

If you are going via the Shimla route, you will get gradually acclimatized, since the jump in altitude isn’t nearly enough to cause problem for most people.

As far as Diamox is concerned, it does help, even though it has its own side effects.

As for Disprin, it too helps, since it essentially thins the blood which I guess, helps carry more oxygen.

 

[where eagles dare]

as far as Diamox is concerned it is effective ONLY if taken 48 hours before gaining height... so once you leave plains one needs to start taking this pill... BUT it has to be taken very rationally...
Disprin is surely helpful for beginners as it dont subside any symptoms of high altitude and has no side effects...

As far as Diamox is concerned, it does help, even though it has its own side effects.

As for Disprin, it too helps, since it essentially thins the blood which I guess, helps carry more oxygen.

 

[Indizen]

I started taking Diamox 250 mg twice daily a day before my flight.
I had no issues regarding altitude illness at all.
No side effects.
No trouble with breathing, or headache etc

No one needs to have any misgivings regarding the drug.

 

[ravi200223]

yogesh sir
i am going leh ladakh from 8 june via srinagar kargil leh. during this trip which type of ams i have face. i am normal man an going leh by bike. Is oxigen cylinder is important to carry. and also confirm can we carry sleeping bag and tant.
please advise
ravi kumar

 

[pushpinder]

yogesh sir
i am going leh ladakh from 8 june via srinagar kargil leh. during this trip which type of ams i have face. i am normal man an going leh by bike. Is oxigen cylinder is important to carry. and also confirm can we carry sleeping bag and tant.
please advise
ravi kumar

Ravi,
Acute mountain sickness can hit anyone, regardless of physical condition.
That said, since you are going by the Srinagar route, chances of AMS are less likely since your ascent will be gradual and you will have sufficient time for acclimatization.
You don't need to carry oxygen.
All the high passes like Khardungla and Changla have medical aid posts manned by Army. Oxygen is available at these posts.
They also have Gammow bags to handle patients conditions like HAPO ( high altitude pulmonary oedema).
Don't worry! Bash on regardless!!

 

[ravi200223]

dear sir pushinder
please advise can i carry tant and sleeping bag.

Ravi,
Acute mountain sickness can hit anyone, regardless of physical condition.
That said, since you are going by the Srinagar route, chances of AMS are less likely since your ascent will be gradual and you will have sufficient time for acclimatization.
You don't need to carry oxygen.
All the high passes like Khardungla and Changla have medical aid posts manned by Army. Oxygen is available at these posts.
They also have Gammow bags to handle patients conditions like HAPO ( high altitude pulmonary oedema).
Don't worry! Bash on regardless!!

 

[pushpinder]

dear sir pushinder
please advise can i carry tant and sleeping bag.

You may carry a tent and S bag, but there will rarely be a place where you will not find some accommodation.
My suggestion, avoid the extra burden.

 

[Shweta123]

I plan to visit Leh with my parents in from 9-17 Aug 2014 (our first trip to Leh). They are in 55-60 years age group, healthy with no illness. We are debating at home for quite some time, whether to fly directly into Leh from Mumbai v.s. road trip from Manali - Leh. My biggest concern is to be able to take them without having much AMS problems, so that they can enjoy the trip. I personally feel that road travel will be more suitable for them to get acclimatised as against straight away landing at 17,000 feet.
On the other hand, some people say that even if you choose to fly directly, you can just stay in hotel for 2 days to get acclimatised. However, before doing the booking of tickets I wanted your opinions, please share, what would be the best approach.

thank you !

 

[Yogesh Sarkar]

Flying directly to Leh would be a better bet than taking the Manali route. However, taking Srinagar route to Leh would be an even better choice. Check the following guide for more info Ladakh AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) Survival Guide | BCMTouring and please consult with your doctor, before deciding anything.

Oh yes, Leh is at 11,500ft. While Manali - Leh Highway remains cover 13,000ft, once you begin ascent to Baralacha La (till you reach Rumtse).

 

[delhitrekker]

We all Indian take this altitude thing for granted and really we don't understand what Ladakh is all about. I have been to Ladakh umpteen number of times and everytime I go I found someone who thinks that Ladakh is like Shimla or Manali which is very bad.

Nowdays Oximeter are very cheap and very effective in giving indications of AMS.