Altitude Sickness

How do I Choose an Operator? There are hundreds of companies who service the mountain; selecting an operator can be a daunting task. You want to be sure that your operator staffs experienced, competent guides, who practice high safety standards and treats porters well. Don't select strictly based on price. Avoid the cheapest operators - someare downright dangerous. But do not assume a high budget operator is superior either.When Should I Climb?...

Just in time for the travel season, here is a guide to travel and altitude sickness that can help you prepare for any destination.The term "altitude sickness" describes a group of disorders affecting the lungs, brain, and central nervous system after travelers arrive at an elevation over 8,000 feet (2,500 meters).The most common altitude-related disorder is acute mountain sickness, or AMS. The hallmark diagnostic feature of AMS is headache. AMS...

You feel...You feel as if you have a bad hangover. Your head aches, you are a bit dizzy, you get short of breath with any exertion and you can't sleep.If you're on a mountain and have risen to altitude too quickly, these are signs not of drunkenness, but of acute mountain sickness (AMS).Thin AirThe higher you go above sea level, the thinner the air becomes. Barometric pressure decreases (although the air still contains 21% oxygen). Every breath...

Acute mountain sickness is an sickness that can affect mountain climbers, hikers, skiers, or travelers who climb too fast. Acute mountain sickness is actually more common in fit young men because they are more likely to attempt a rapid ascent by racing up the mountain like some indestructible super hero. It usually occurs when people rapidly reach a high altitude. Acute mountain sickness occurs from the combination of reduced air pressure and a...

Each year millions of outdoor enthusiasts travel to the mountains for an adventure. Whether it be backpacking, skiing, mountain climbing, hunting or other activities, traveling to high altitudes, for some, has its drawbacks. Many people who come to the mountains in pursuit of adventure often times are coming from significantly lower elevations. This great difference in elevation may leave some people feeling uncomfortable. For those unaccustomed...