Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness, or AMS, challenges Kilimanjaro climbers as reduced oxygen and low air pressure strain the body. Knowing its causes, symptoms, and prevention ensures a safer, more successful summit experience.

What is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness refers to the body’s physiological and symptomatic reactions to lower oxygen availability at high altitudes, typically above 2,400 meters (8,000 feet). It can affect anyone, regardless of fitness or experience, and is especially relevant on Kilimanjaro as climbers ascend to nearly 5,895 meters (19,341 feet).

How the Body Responds to High Altitudes?

• Increased breathing and heart rate to supply more oxygen.

• Production of additional red blood cells to enhance oxygen transport.

• Release of enzymes to improve oxygen absorption by tissues.

While these adjustments are helpful, they take time. This is why acclimatization is essential for reducing the risk of AMS.

Causes of Altitude Sickness

The primary cause of AMS is reduced air pressure and oxygen levels at high elevations. The faster you ascend, the less time your body has to adjust, increasing the likelihood of symptoms. The risk factors include:

• Rapid Ascent - Climbing too quickly without acclimatization increases the risk.
• Pre-existing Conditions - Respiratory issues like asthma or bronchitis, heart disease, anaemia, or a history of thrombosis can heighten susceptibility.
• Living at Low Altitudes - People living near sea level may find it harder to adapt.
• Vulnerable Groups - Children, older adults, and individuals with a history of AMS are more prone to symptoms.

Even highly fit climbers can develop AMS if they don’t pace their ascent properly.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

Symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening conditions. They typically begin 12–24 hours after reaching higher altitudes and can worsen with continued ascent.

Mild Symptoms:

• Persistent headache, often described as throbbing.
• Nausea or lack of appetite.
• Fatigue, weakness, and difficulty sleeping.
• Dizziness or feeling off-balance.

Severe Symptoms:

• Nausea and vomiting.
• Shortness of breath, even while resting.
• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance (ataxia).
• Persistent chest tightness and coughing up blood, are symptoms of High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE).
•  Severe fatigue, withdrawal from social interaction, and reduced consciousness indicate High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE).

Both HAPE and HACE are life-threatening and require immediate descent to lower altitudes.

Preventing Altitude Sickness

Prevention is key to managing altitude sickness. By taking deliberate steps, climbers can reduce their risk and enhance their chances of reaching the summit. Some essential prevention tips:

• Climb Gradually - Opt for longer routes, such as Lemosho or Northern Circuit, which allow for better acclimatization.
• Stay Hydrated - Drink 3–4 litres of water daily to counteract dehydration caused by exertion and altitude.
• Avoid Alcohol and Smoking - Both worsen dehydration and interfere with acclimatization.
• Eat Carbohydrate-Rich Meals - Carbs are easier to digest at high altitudes and provide quick energy.
• Consult a doctor - Discuss your fitness level and consider medications like acetazolamide (Diamox), which helps speed up acclimatization.
• Listen to Your Body - If symptoms worsen, stop ascending and consider descending. Ignoring symptoms can lead to severe complications.

If you follow the above steps, you are going to reach the pinnacle of Africa without getting worried about the ill effects of Kilimanjaro Altitude Sickness.

Additional Health Challenges on Kilimanjaro

There are many additional health issues that a climber can face while Climbing Kilimanjaro. The challenges and their prevention tips are mentioned below:

Colds and Respiratory Infections:

Respiratory tract infections, such as colds or bronchitis, can increase the risk of AMS and worsen symptoms. Some prevention tips are:

• Avoid trekking if you’re sick, as high altitudes can exacerbate symptoms.
• Maintain hygiene, including regular handwashing.
• Dress appropriately to stay warm and avoid exposure to cold, damp conditions.

Stomach Troubles:

Traveller’s diarrhoea is another common issue that can derail your trek. Proper hygiene and cautious food choices are essential. Some steps to avoid stomach issues:

• Eat freshly cooked, hot meals. Avoid raw or unpeeled fruits unless washed in clean water.
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitisers before meals.
• Carry over-the-counter remedies like Lomotil or Imodium for mild diarrhoea. Consult your doctor for antibiotics for severe cases.

Malaria Medicine:

Although malaria is rare in Kilimanjaro due to its high altitude, it’s a concern in the lowlands before or after your trek. Some important considerations you need to follow are:

• Consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis, especially if you plan to visit areas like the Serengeti or Zanzibar.
• Be aware of possible side effects of malaria medications and their interactions with altitude.

How Our Guides Help Manage Altitude Sickness

Our experienced guides are trained to monitor and manage AMS symptoms throughout your trek. They prioritize your safety and well-being, ensuring quick intervention if needed. The guides help in:

• Regularly monitoring oxygen levels and heart rate using pulse oximeters.
• Recognizing early symptoms of AMS, HAPE, and HACE.
• Adjusting the trekking pace to match your acclimatization needs.
• Making informed decisions about ascending or descending based on your health.

Their expertise ensures you are in safe hands every step of the way.

How Our Guides Help Manage Altitude Sickness

Our experienced guides are trained to monitor and manage AMS symptoms throughout your trek. They prioritize your safety and well-being, ensuring quick intervention if needed. The guides help in:

• Regularly monitoring oxygen levels and heart rate using pulse oximeters.
• Recognizing early symptoms of AMS, HAPE, and HACE.
• Adjusting the trekking pace to match your acclimatization needs.
• Making informed decisions about ascending or descending based on your health.

Their expertise ensures you are in safe hands every step of the way.

First-Aid Kit Essentials for Climbers

To address minor injuries and illnesses on the mountain, we recommend all climbers carry a well-stocked first-aid kit. Some suggested items for your kit:

• Painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol for headaches.
• Antiseptic cream, band-aids, and blister plasters for cuts and blisters.
• Medications for nausea, diarrhoea, and respiratory issues.
• Insect repellent and sunscreen for lowland areas.
• Hand sanitisers and throat lozenges for hygiene and comfort.
• Aloe gel for sunburn and Voltaren gel for sore muscles.

Don’t forget your medical insurance card, doctor’s prescriptions, and emergency contact numbers.

Final Thoughts on Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is a serious challenge on Kilimanjaro, but it doesn’t have to derail your trekking journey. With proper preparation, gradual acclimatization, and expert guidance, you can minimize risks and focus on the incredible experience of climbing Africa’s tallest mountain.

Ready to conquer Kilimanjaro safely? Contact us to learn how our expertly designed itineraries and trained guides ensure a secure and enjoyable adventure!