Altitude Sickness

1. What is altitude sickness, and how does it affect climbers on Kilimanjaro?

Altitude sickness, also known as AMS or acute mountain sickness, happens when your body can’t get used to the thinner air at high places. This can cause symptoms that can be mild or bad. Climbers on Kilimanjaro might feel ill if they go up the mountain too fast.

On Kilimanjaro, the risk of altitude sickness increases due to the significant elevation gain over a relatively short period. Climbers may experience headaches, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms, which can hinder their ascent.

To avoid altitude sickness, climbers must acclimatise gradually, stay hydrated, and take appropriate precautions, like using the correct ascent profile. Understanding the risks and possible symptoms is crucial for a successful climb.

2. How can climbers prevent altitude sickness while climbing Kilimanjaro?

To prevent altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro, climbers should follow several essential guidelines. First, ensure a slow and steady ascent, allowing the body to acclimatise and adapt to decreasing oxygen levels.

Second, stay adequately hydrated by drinking plenty of water each day.

Third, maintain a high-calorie diet to fuel the body for the substantial physical effort required during the climb.

Climbers can also ask their doctor about medications, such as acetazolamide (Diamox), which could help acclimatisation. Remember, the most crucial factor is to listen to your body and acknowledge any symptoms that signal the need for rest or descent.

3. What signs of mild altitude sickness, and when should climbers be concerned?

Mild altitude sickness symptoms can include headache, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping. It is common for most climbers to experience mild symptoms initially due to the rapid change in elevation on Kilimanjaro.

However, climbers should be concerned if these symptoms worsen, persist, or are accompanied by other severe symptoms such as ataxia (loss of coordination) or shortness of breath at rest.

Suppose mild symptoms don’t improve with rest, hydration, and medication. In that case, it is essential to consider descending to a lower altitude to avoid developing severe altitude sickness, which can be life-threatening.

4. How do tour operators and guides help climbers manage altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro?

Tour operators and guides are experienced in helping climbers manage the altitude sickness risks on Kilimanjaro. They follow a carefully designed ascent profile to aid acclimatisation, perform regular health checks, and monitor each climber’s condition throughout the ascent.

In addition, they emphasise the importance of hydration, nutrition, and rest for a successful climb. The guides are knowledgeable about recognising early symptoms of altitude sickness and will recommend an immediate descent if they assess that a climber is at risk of developing severe symptoms.

Choosing a credible and reliable operator is vital for a safe and enjoyable Kilimanjaro experience.

5. Can people with existing health conditions or concerns climb Kilimanjaro safely?

If you have health issues, make sure to talk to your doctor before you try to climb Kilimanjaro. Conditions like heart or lung problems can make you more likely to get sick from the high altitude or have other troubles on the climb.

You must get a check-up and an OK from your doctor to ensure you’re safe and keep risks low during your climb. Let your trip leader and guides know if you have any health issues. This way, they can plan the climb better and give you the right help during your trip.

6. Are medications helpful in preventing or treating altitude sickness in Kilimanjaro?

Yes, medicine can help stop or treat altitude sickness in Kilimanjaro. Acetazolamide (Diamox) is a common one. It enables you to avoid getting sick by helping your body get used to less oxygen faster. It does this by making you breathe more quickly.

But make sure you talk to a doctor before using the medicine, as there could be side effects. Medicine should be used along with getting used to the high altitude rather than replace a good plan for going up and down the mountain.

7. What do climbers do when they experience severe altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro?

When experiencing severe altitude sickness symptoms such as ataxia, chest tightness, severe breathlessness, or coughing up frothy fluid, it is crucial to begin an immediate descent to a lower altitude under the guidance of the tour operator or guides. Severe altitude sickness is a life-threatening emergency, and delaying the descent can have dangerous consequences.

Accompanied by a guide, the affected climber should reach a lower altitude as quickly and safely as possible to alleviate the symptoms and seek further medical assistance, if necessary. In such cases, prioritising health over achieving the summit goal is essential.

8. What differentiates acute mountain sickness (AMS) from high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE)?

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a general term for the mild to moderate symptoms of altitude sickness that affect climbers due to the reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) is a more severe and life-threatening form of altitude sickness caused by fluid accumulation in the lungs. This condition can progress rapidly and result in extreme shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing up frothy fluid. Immediate descent and medical attention are necessary in cases of HAPE.

9. How does the route choice affect the risk of altitude sickness on Kilimanjaro?

Choosing the correct route on Kilimanjaro can significantly affect the risk of altitude sickness. Longer routes, which offer a slow and steady ascent with proper acclimatisation days, are preferred for reducing the risk.

Routes like the Lemosho and Northern Circuit let you climb slowly, helping your body get used to high places. Short routes, like the Marangu and Umbwe, could make you more likely to get sick from high altitude because you go up quickly, and your body might not have enough time to adjust.

Discussing your preferences and concerns with a trusted tour operator can help you select the optimal route for a safe and enjoyable experience.

10. How long does it take for altitude sickness symptoms to subside after descending to a lower altitude?

The time it takes for altitude sickness symptoms to subside after descending will vary depending on the severity of symptoms, individual physiology, and the altitude difference. Generally, mild symptoms of altitude sickness can improve significantly within several hours to a day after descending to a lower elevation.

However, severe symptoms or conditions like HAPE or HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) may take longer to resolve and may require medical intervention. It is crucial to monitor one’s condition closely after descending and seek professional medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.

11. Can children and teenagers climb Kilimanjaro safely without altitude sickness concerns?

Children and teenagers can safely climb Kilimanjaro with proper preparation, guidance, and acclimatisation. However, they can be more vulnerable to altitude sickness compared to adults.

Parental supervision, consultation with a healthcare professional, and open communication with tour operators and guides are essential to ensure safety. Carefully selecting a route that allows for adequate acclimatisation, closely monitoring symptoms, and prioritising health over summit goals will help provide a safe and enjoyable experience for young climbers on Kilimanjaro.