Herdsman in Gyangtse city

Since most places in Tibet are higher than 3,000 meters (9,843 feet), Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), also called Altitude Sickness, is the biggest health risk to tourists.

AMS is common at high altitudes due to the decreasing availability of oxygen. Most people will experience differing degrees of symptoms at high elevation, depending on the altitude, the ascent rate and individual physical condition. Symptoms of AMS include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, loss of appetite and disturbed sleep. Most people will experience one or more AMS symptoms upon their arrival in Tibet. The symptoms will usually gradually decrease in severity during acclimatization. Mild AMS usually will not interfere with mild activity.

However AMS can be fatal if the patient is not treated properly. Therefore, be sure you are physically and psychologically fit before visiting Tibet. Consult your doctor if you have problems with heart, lung, other organ problems or anemia.

AMS can be lessened or avoided with proper acclimatization. A gradual ascent will allow your body to acclimatize to higher altitudes. Go no higher 300 – 400 hundred meters (984 – 1,312 feet) per day and take a rest after each 1,000 meter (3280 feet) ascent. Mild AMS symptoms can be treated with proper medication. If medication does not relieve the symptoms, go to hospital or evacuate immediately to safe altitude!

Precautions that may help to prevent or lessen the effects of AMS:

• Any sickness at high altitude is AMS until proven otherwise
• Never go higher with symptoms of AMS
• Drink plenty of water (3 – 4 litres daily at least) and eat carbohydrate food to avoid dehydration.
• Do not over exert and only partake in light activity immediate after your arrival.
• It is significant that you report any symptoms of AMS immediately to other group members in the trip.
• Don’t smoke, drink alcohol or take other depressants such as tranquilizers and sleeping pills. These will depress the respiratory drive and limit oxygen intake.