Great Expectations #6

How does the world feel all the way up there?

The higher you go, the lower the oxygen supply and air pressure, making it harder to breathe.

• Piz Palü, Switzerland/Italy @ 3900m
• Lhasa, Tibet @ 3650m
• Paro, Bhutan @ 2250m

At around 2,450 metres above sea level, you are at risk of getting acute mountain sickness (AMS). Altitude sickness is commonly indicated by headaches, nausea, a loss of appetite and fatigue (even when you’re taking a rest).
In the worst-case scenario, or if you keep ascending, you may also be at risk of:

• High altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE)
• High altitude cerebral edema (HACE)

When experiencing AMC, stop scaling at once and descend. Take the appropriate medication and rest. It usually takes 1-3 days for symptoms to subside. Now before attempting the hike, it is important to take preventive actions!

Tip #1
Climbing depletes magnesium reserves! Stocking up on magnesium-rich foods reduces the possibility of a cramp mid-climb.

Tip #2
Hydrate before hiking (~500ml), and pack enough water to drink – 2 litres every 6 to 8 hours. Avoid alcohol; it makes it harder to adapt to elevation changes.
*Pro-tip: Pack ginger tea! Its nutrients can alleviate altitude sickness discomfort caused by nausea and vomiting.

Tip #3
Hike gradually – plan a day of rest after reaching every 1,000m.
*Pro-tip: Climb high, but sleep low! Ascend to higher elevations in the day, and retire to lower elevations to sleep at night.