Detailed Description

In recent times Ladakh has become a major tourist hotspot, and every year thousands of tourist visit Ladakh to enjoy the scenic beauty by the lakes and breathtaking views of long stretched landscapes.

The city of Leh is situated at 11,500 feet above sea level and traveling around Ladakh will take travelers further above 15,000 feet every time they get over some pass. Furthermore Ladakh experiences considerable fluctuations in day and night temperatures even during summer months from (June to September) which further adds to the unfavorable living conditions.

So if you are planning to fly into Leh, it is very important for you to understand the precautions you must take while visiting places on high altitudes and take AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) seriously.

Understanding AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) and Acclimatization.

High altitudes can be classified into the following:

- High Altitude – Between 8,000 feet to 12,000 feet.
- Very High Altitude – Between 12,000 feet to 18, 000 feet.
- Extremely High Altitude – 18,000 feet and above.

An average person can easily travel up to 8,000 feet without any problems of mountain sickness, but as the altitude of the traveler increases the barometric pressure starts to decrease resulting in reduced oxygen intake per breath. Now in order to balance the oxygen intake your body needs to increase your breathing rate. However, even after increased breathing rate and increased oxygen level in blood, there is no increase in oxygen level that is actually required to maintain balance.

Hence by spending sometime (few hours) at high altitudes the traveler’s body begins to adapt to the changes in the oxygen levels and this process is called as Acclimatization. Acclimatizing to high altitudes differs from person to person and each person copes at a different level.

Understanding level, symptoms and cure of AMS

AMS Level : Mild.
Symptoms of AMS : Headache, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, nausea, disturbed sleep, and a general feeling of uneasiness.
Possible Treatment : Medication or Descend.

AMS Level : Moderate.
Symptoms of AMS : Decreased coordination (ataxia), Severe headache (not relieved by medicine), other mild level symptoms with increased affect.
Possible Treatment : Advanced Medication or immediate descend of about 1000 to 2000 feet.

AMS Level : Severe.
Symptoms of AMS : Inability to walk, decreasing mental status, and fluid build-up in the lungs.
Possible Treatment : Immediate Descend of about 2000 to 4000 feet.

Precautions before flying into Leh

In case any traveler suffers from any kind of blood, lung or heart related problems they should consult their doctor before visiting Ladakh as a visit may cause serious additional problems.

Experienced travelers and trekkers suggest one Diamox tablet per day should be taken for 2 days prior to your departure for Leh by air, and continue it within Ladakh for a day or two if required, to overcome the effect of high altitude.

However, travelers MUST consult their family doctor before using medicines like Diamox. Please note: Diamox does not ‘mask’ AMS symptoms; it actually tricks your body into breathing a little faster, and thus helps you in acclimatizing faster.

Carry all other essential medicines, including those prescribed by personal physicians. A couple of weeks before leaving for Leh,  indulge in an Iron rich diet i.e. dark green leafy vegetables, meat and drink vegetable and fruit juices instead of milk or tea, as it will help your body in maintaining high energy levels and will be helpful during your visit to Ladakh.

Precautions after reaching Leh by air

- On arrival devote two days to just resting and letting your body get used to the high altitude and climate of Leh.

- Apart from rest, drink ample of water or any liquid that can keep your body hydrated. Beware 'DO NOT OVER HYDRATE'.

- Do not set off for high energy activities such as trekking, instead after 5 - 6 hours of rest make leisurely visits to nearby markets and monasteries of Leh.

- Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol until you are fully acclimatized.

- In case you do experience shortness of breath, disturbed sleep, lethargy, loss of appetite, constant coughing  or  nausea seek medical assistance at the local hospital 'Sonam Norboo Memorial Hospital', which is well equipped to handle acute mountain sickness and other ailments.

- Travelers can purchase portable oxygen cylinders, which are available at chemist shops which provide temporary relief, in case you or other family members start feeling uneasy.

- Be flexible with your travel plans while touring Ladakh, do not over-stress or push yourself at the cost of your own  health and well being.

- Keep yourself warm at all times by wearing woolens and make sure your clothes are always dry.

- Eat a high carbohydrate diet while you are traveling or staying at high altitudes.

- Avoid overeating and eat light with frequent small meals during the day.

- Follow the trekkers mantra, ‘Climb high and sleep low’ i.e. even though you might travel across high altitudes and   passes during the day, you should try and sleep at places at the lower altitudes.