Beating Altitude Sickness in Ladakh: What You Need to Know

Beating Altitude Sickness in Ladakh: What You Need to Know

While travelling comes with both pros and cons, it should not prevent you from experiencing the world and living your life to the fullest. You can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip with proper preparation and research. When visiting Ladakh, one thing to be cautious of is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) which is common at high altitudes. To help you cope with AMS, here are a few helpful tips.

Causes

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is prevalent in Ladakh, caused by the lack of oxygen at high altitudes. The decreased air pressure and reduced oxygen levels commonly found at higher elevations can cause your body to struggle to adapt to the changing environment. This leads to AMS. Physical exertion such as trekking, hiking, and mountaineering can also increase the likelihood of AMS due to the high demands on the body at high altitudes.

Symptoms

The onset of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can occur rapidly in some individuals, even after a sudden increase in altitude. In contrast, others may experience it over a few days despite a gradual ascent.

• Headache

• Shortness of Breath

• Vomiting

• Dizziness

• Fatigue

• Loss of Appetite

• Insomnia

How to Deal With AMS in Ladakh

Altitude sickness is something almost all travellers experience when they reach high-altitude places like Ladakh. The most effective way to prevent AMS is through acclimatization. Travellers visiting Ladakh should take the necessary precautions to acclimate properly.

If arriving by air, it's recommended to dedicate a day for acclimatization. Ensure adequate rest, sleep, and a nutritious diet, while avoiding excessive physical activity. For those driving to Ladakh, it's important to pace yourself and not overexert. 

Allowing your body time to adjust to the high altitude and low oxygen levels is critical. Here are some tips for AMS prevention when you are in Ladakh.

• It's recommended to spend 2 to 3 days acclimatizing in Leh or the Indus valley before venturing to higher altitudes. This allows the body to adjust to the lower oxygen levels and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.

• Refrain from exerting yourself in physical activities, and adopt a slow pace when walking.

• Avoid consuming alcohol and smoking to prevent interference with the body's oxygen metabolism.

• Drink a lot of water, at least 4 litres per day, to compensate for fluid loss during acclimatization.

• Consume nutritious and high-calorie, high-carbohydrate meals.

• If you have a history of hypertension, it's best to consult a physician before embarking on a trip to Ladakh.

• Carry medicines like Diamox, Dexamethasone, Aspirin/Disprin,