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Altitude Sickness
Nearly all tourists entering Tibet experience altitude sickness to some extent. For some the effect is strong, while for others it is small. This has nothing to do with age or sex, but it does have to do with physical fitness. Here are some precautions and tips to lessen the effects of altitude sickness, according to previous experiences in Tibet.
Most of Tibet is high enough to produce some adverse reaction in most people. For the majority of people, the reaction will be a matter of discomfort, breathlessness, poor sleeping patterns or limited capacity for physical exertion. In some, more serious reactions can develop. These can be potentially life-threatening conditions that may only be relieved by moving to a lower altitude; travelers should inform themselves about the symptoms so that they can recognize them.
Adverse reaction to altitude is usually reduced if one acclimatizes by reaching high altitude over a period of at least a few days. For this reason, it is often supposed that traveling to Lhasa by road or rail is better than flying. However, the altitudes where nights are spent while driving to Lhasa may be far in excess of Lhasa's 3600 meters. Roads blocked by landslides or otherwise may require travelers to exert themselves, carrying packs at high altitude, so increasing the likelihood of adverse reaction. Flying to Lhasa, acclimatizing there, and driving out may well be preferable.
On arrival by at high altitude, it is possible that no immediate effects of altitude will be felt. Nevertheless, it is advisable not to exceed the lowest level of physical exertion on the first day, and only increase exertion very gradually over the following days.
Most of western Tibet is at least 1000 meters higher than Lhasa, and is best only approached after several days acclimatizing at a lower altitude.Tips for Combating Altitude Sickness
An individual’s reaction to high altitude is difficult to predict. Do not trust that some preventative measure prior to travel will stop you getting altitude sickness. However, it is advisable to take some precautionary steps before planning your trip to Tibet.
- People with serious heart problems should not go there and people with minor heart problems should follow doctors' recommendations.
- People with high or low blood pressure should follow doctor's recommendations.
- Try to keep healthy and not to catch a cold before entering Tibet.
- Try to keep healthy and not to catch a cold in Tibet.
- The first day after arriving in Tibet, it is suggested that visitors not take a bath and smokers not smoke.
- Drink plenty of water in Tibet, as dehydration is common at higher altitudes due to faster evaporation.
- Tell the guide as soon as possible if you don't feel well and follow the guide's advice.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and lip cream are advisable to protect your eyes and skin, as Tibet's high altitude and the atmosphere allow the sun's solar radiation to strike the earth with unusual intensity.
- In addition to the normal medications for traveling, like aspirin and Ibuprofen, you should bring some high altitude treatment. Oxygen canisters can be bought to relieve symptoms. Ask your doctor for recommendations.
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