Many people and families are organizing restorative trips to the relaxing and refreshing hill stations of the Himalayas and other high areas as the intense summer heatwave engulfs most of India. Traveling to the mountains provides a much-needed respite from the stress of city life, excessive heat, and pollution. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a hidden health concern that many people are unaware of, despite the beautiful scenery and refreshing winds.
At Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, we believe prevention is always better than a cure. As specialists in both physical and functional health, we believe it is essential to educate our clients on how to prepare for high-altitude travel safely and to increase awareness of AMS, particularly at this time of year when travel is at its most popular.
What is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)?
Lower oxygen levels and decreased air pressure at higher elevations – typically above 2,500 meters (8,000 feet) – cause acute mountain sickness. The human body need time to adjust to such changes, and a sudden rise without adequate acclimation might cause symptoms ranging from minor discomfort to major health risks.
Why is AMS Relevant Now?
Temperatures in the Indian lowlands have risen beyond 45°C, which has led to a notable surge in tourism in mountainous areas such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and portions of the Northeast. Unfortunately, a lot of tourists drive up too quickly without giving their bodies enough time to acclimate. Because of this, AMS instances are increasing over the summer months.
The danger exists whether you’re traveling to a high-altitude hill station, trekking, or simply taking in the scenery from above. Additionally, early symptoms are frequently misdiagnosed as food-related discomfort or travel tiredness, which delays necessary medical attention.
Common Causes of Acute Mountain Sickness
- Rapid Ascent: Achieving great elevations in a few of hours without exposing oneself gradually.
- Physical Exertion: Trekking or other physically demanding activities just after reaching a certain altitude constitute physical exertion.
- Dehydration: Fluid loss is increased by dry alpine air.
- Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol has an impact on hydration and respiration.
- Ignoring Altitude Markers: When traveling, one is unaware of the elevation gain.
Your tissues have less access to oxygen as you ascend because the partial pressure of oxygen drops. In response, the body compensates by raising heart and respiratory rates. AMS and, in extreme situations, High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), all of which can be fatal, can result from fluid spilling from blood vessels into the brain and lungs if the body does not acclimate appropriately.
Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness
AMS usually begins 6–24 hours after reaching a high altitude. Symptoms include:
- Headache (most common)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Fatigue or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Sleep disturbance
- Swelling of hands, feet, or face
If symptoms worsen or do not improve with rest, medical attention is urgently required.
How to check Readiness for Mountains?
Though AMS is not diagnosed with imaging or blood tests, early identification through physical and functional assessments is key. At Elite Physiotherapy:
- We use functional capacity tests, pulse oximetry, and cardio-respiratory assessments to teach athletes and travelers self-monitoring procedures.
- We do physical fitness evaluations before traveling, particularly for clients who have musculoskeletal, lung, or cardiac conditions.
- For those taking part in hikes or other high-altitude activities, we provide specialized acclimatization programs.
Who is at Greater Risk?
- Individuals who already have cardiovascular or pulmonary disorders
- Youngsters and elderly people
- Visitors to high heights for the first time
- Hikers or trekkers going on unguided high-altitude ascents
- People who are moving quickly from sea level to high mountain regions
Prior Preparation Tips to Avoid AMS
Here are some essential precautions from the professionals at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre to take before you head to the mountains:
1. Fitness screening and physiotherapy before travel
- Allow our skilled physiotherapists to evaluate your musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory fitness, particularly if you intend to walk or trek.
2. The Acclimatization Plan
- Spend one or two nights at a moderate elevation.
- Once over 3,000 meters, increase altitude by no more than 300 to 500 meters per day.
3. Nutrition and Hydration
- At high elevations, consume three to four liters of water every day.
- Steer clear of excessive caffeine and alcohol.
- Eat meals that are easy to digest and high in energy.
4. Steer clear of overdoing it
- Once at altitude, get enough rest.
- As your body adapts, gradually increase your level of physical activity.
5. Recognize the Warning Indications
- Always have a portable pulse oximeter on hand.
- Learn how to keep an eye on your heart rate and oxygen saturation.
- If your symptoms are persistent, get treatment.
6. Medical Prevention (When Suggested)
- For those who are at danger, some drugs may be prescribed beforehand. Always get medical advice first.
When to Seek Medical Help?
If symptoms progress to:
- Difficulty breathing at rest
- Inability to walk straight
- Confusion or hallucinations
- Severe chest tightness or coughing pink frothy sputum
Descend immediately and consult emergency services. Delay in intervention can be fatal.
Physiotherapy Support After AMS
For those recovering from AMS or associated issues, Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre also offers rehabilitation assistance, particularly to athletes or adventure seekers. Among our offerings are:
- Pulmonary rehab
- Neuromuscular reconditioning
- Postural and breathing retraining
- Guided return-to-activity programs
Conclusion
Your health must always come first, even while a vacation to the hills could provide a lovely break from the sweltering Indian summer. If acute mountain sickness is not treated seriously, it can transform a relaxing vacation into a medical disaster.
You may prepare your body to manage the altitude with ease with the help of Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, guaranteeing that your mountain memories are joyful rather than hospital stays.
Stay Safe, Stay Informed, Stay Healthy.
For travel fitness consultation, altitude-specific physiotherapy guidance, or post-travel rehab, visit us at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre.