Acclimatization

Acclimatization is a frequently mentioned term associated with high mountainous regions. This simply means to come to terms with the climate conditions of the place. Since, Ladakh is situated at a very high level, the temperatures are very low and there is a lack of oxygen. This can cause our body to respond differently than normal. You may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, nausea or in extreme cases Acute Mountain Syndrome (AMS) . Please do not panic, it is very normal and can happen to any healthy person. It is not normal for our body to stay at heights of above 3000m. Therefore, it is very important to acclimatize before starting your Ladakh exploration.

If you are travelling by flight, acclimatization will start once you arrive at Leh. Take a rest of one day and explore the local markets or stay in the hotel. You may even take a walk down the road if you wish to. This way your body will start to adapt properly to the climate. If you are travelling by road, your body starts adapting slowly on the way as we ascend from lower altitudes to higher altitudes. The acclimatization process is complete by the time you arrive at Leh. You may also consult your doctor before planning a trip and take advise or the prescribed medicines for precaution.

Tips

Take care of the following to avoid AMS:

• Do not smoke.
• Do not exercise / rush or walk very fast.
• Conserve energy. Take enough rest.
• Take long deep breaths.
• Drink plenty of fluids at regular intervals.

If you still feel dizzy or nauseous, consult the doctor immediately before the symptoms become severe.

Note: People with high blood pressure (Hypertension) or any other medical condition may visit Ladakh but after consulting their physician and taking all necessary precautions. You will have to take things very slowly and avoid a packed plan. It is worth noting that Ladakh is a remote region and you may not find medical services easily. In case of emergency, it might be difficult to get proper treatment in any place other than Leh. So be practical about your planning. Read this article to know more tips for your trip to Ladakh.

Guidelines by the LAHDC, Leh

• All tourist/visitors arriving in Leh must undergo at least 48 hrs of acclimatization before initiating their journey to high altitude areas
• Road travel does not help at all in acclimatization. It builds up the altitude effect progressively.
• Tablet Diamox-250mg (acetazolamide) must be taken twice a day, after breakfast after dinner at least two days before starting journey to Leh and should be continued for two days more, after arriving at Leh.
• There should be no active physical exertion on the first two days of arrival in Leh.
• Tourists should have at least 2-3 ltrs. of water per day and should avoid alcohol, smoking cigarettes and sedatives
• Tourists should have a light meal on the first day of arrival to avoid indigestion.
• In case of symptoms of HAPE/HACE kindly consult a doctor immediately.

Danger Signs

• Headache
• Nausea
• Coughing
• Lassitude
• Lack of Concentration
• Disturbed sleep
• Loss of appetite.
• Irregular breathing
• Breathlessness

Precautions

• Take complete rest for 24 to 36 hrs
• Avoid excessive sleep during day time.
• Avoid sleeping pills, alcohol and smoking
• Take an adequate amount of fluid 2-3 Itrs.

Important

Symptoms of High-Altitude Pulmonary Edima (HAPE) and High -Altitude Cerebral
Edema (HACE) can be life threatening and fatal

In case of any emergency kindly contact the following telephone No.

1. CMO office Leh 01982-252012
2. Medical Superintendent, SNM Hospital Leh 01982-252014
3. Casualty SNM Hospital Leh 01982-053629