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Altitudes are generally defined as ...
High altitude 2,400m -
4,200m
Very high altitude 4,200m - 5,400m
Extreme altitude above 5,400m (Uhuru Peak is 5895m)
During the trek it is likely that all climbers will experience at least some
form of mild altitude sickness. It is caused by the failure of the body to adapt
quickly enough to the reduced level of oxygen in the air at an increased
altitude. There are many different symptoms but the most common are headaches,
light headedness, nausea, loss of appetite, tingling in the extremities (toes,
fingers) and a mild swelling of the face, ankles and fingers. These symptoms in
a mild form are not serious and will normally disappear within 48 hours, the
result of poor circulation or a small leakage of fluid within the body. In
serious cases, the leakage can become large and start to fill up the brain
cavity (Cerebral Oedema) or the lung cavity (Pulmonary Oedema). Cerebral Oedema
is recognised by severe headaches, loss of balance and dizziness leading to
coma. Pulmonary Oedema results in the coughing up of pink sputum. Both
conditions, if left unchecked, will lead to coma and death unless a rapid
descent is made.
Six factors that
affect the incidence and severity of altitude illness ...
1. Rate of ascent
2. Altitude attained
3. Length of exposure
4. Level of exertion
5. Hydration and diet
6. Inherent physiological susceptibility
The following three
steps are a guide to achieving acclimatisation:
Water : A fluid intake of 4 - 5 liters per day is recommended. Fluid intake
improves circulation and most other bodily functions, but does not increase
fluid leakage from the body. Thirst should not be an indicator of proper fluid
intake, if your urine is clear then you are drinking enough. On the lower
slopes, bottled mineral water will be provided but on the higher slopes drinking
water is taken from mountain streams. The water is double-pumped and iodine is
added for purification (Good enough to drink but you may wish to add extra
purification tablets). All climbers should bring their own water bottles.
Slow Walk : Pace is a
critical factor on all routes. Unless there is a very steep uphill
section your breathing rate should be the same as if you were walking
down the street. If you cannot hold a conversation you are walking too
fast. Breathing through the nose for the first 2 days of the climb
will limit the pace. Walk "softly" allowing your knees to
gently cushion each pace. "Pole pole" (go slowly) is the
phrase of the day.
Walk high sleep low : If you have enough energy, take an afternoon stroll
further up the mountain before descending to sleep (not if you have any symptoms
of altitude sickness!)
Almost all routes
offer an extra day for acclimatisation. Taking this day increases your
chances of getting to the top by 30% and increases you chances of
actually getting some enjoyment out of the experience by much more
than that. An extra day is a considerable expense, but we recommend
that all climbers take this option. On some routes there is the option
for two extra days - for this day you can read 'optional'. For the
first extra day you should read 'necessary'.
Some climbers take Diamox, which is widely used to combat the effects of mild
altitude sickness by causing the body to breathe more deeply during sleep. This
is of course a personal preference.
If you plan to
take any medication during your climb, you must consult your doctor
prior to departure. The effects of medications may vary with altitude
and stress. All climbers should consult their doctor or a specialised
travel clinic well in advance of their trip. On the climb, guides
carry all basic medications but it is recommend that all climbers
should take a small, personal first aid kit.
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