The human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of barometric pressures. However, this process of adaptation or acclimatisation does take time and the most important rule is to gain elevation slowly. Most people encounter ill effects due to altitude purely because they gain altitude too quickly. The best practice is move slowly and avoid large altitude gains in a single day. This is not always possible as every route or trail is different and on some days one has but no option than to gain an above average amount of elevation. These days are best followed by a rest day. Hydration is also a significant factor, you should increase your water consumption by as much as possible while at high altitude.
Climbers on the Summit of Shitidhar (5394m / 17368ft), Himachal.
Good physical preparation is also key. Spend the 2 to 3 months before your trek improving your fitness. The fitter you are the more you will enjoy your trek. Also if you do feel the effects of altitude that extra bit of fitness training can be the deciding factor in you achieving your goals.
Trekker on Stok Kangri (6153m / 20187ft), Ladakh.
Taking Diamox is also popular among some trekkers. Please read the following piece from the International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation (UIAA).
Diamox (acetazolamide) is of some value in the prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Diamox, a drug often used in the treatment of the eye condition glaucoma, is also useful in the prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). AMS occurs commonly during visits to 3000-4500m and may cause a severe headache, exhaustion and general feelings of illness.
Diamox reduces the headache of AMS and helps the body acclimatise to the lack of oxygen - it also probably reduces the incidence of the complications of AMS. Whether or not one takes Diamox is obviously a matter of personal choice - travel to high altitudes is quite possible without it. Though the drug is not recommended as a routine treatment, though there is variation of opinion about this many people choose to use it if travelling quickly to altitude (eg. if flying into Lhasa, Leh or any airport at altitude).
How to take Diamox
If you decide to use the drug, suggested dose is Diamox 125mg (half of one tablet) to be taken twice daily - take the drug for three days before staying at altitude and thereafter for two or three days until you feel acclimatised, for about five days in all. NOT FOR THOSE ALLERGIC TO SULPHA DRUGS
Side Effects
Like all drugs, Diamox may have unwanted side effects. Tingling of the fingers, face and feet is the commonest, but this is not a reason for stopping the drug unless the symptoms are intolerable. Dizziness, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, rashes and more serious allergic reactions have all been reported but are unusual. In exceptional cases, the drug has caused more serious problems with blood formation and/or the kidneys. Those who are allergic to the sulphonamide antibiotics may also be allergic to Diamox. More commonly, the drug makes many people feel a little "off colour"; carbonated drinks and beer also taste strange when you are taking Diamox.
*COPYRIGHT UIAA MOUNTAIN MEDICINE CENTRE*
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