AI Article Synopsis

  • High altitude pilgrims often ascend quickly to places like Kailash Mansarovar, leading to health issues due to lack of preparation and pre-existing medical conditions.
  • A study at Humla District Hospital from 2019 to 2022 analyzed 56 patients, with a majority suffering from symptoms of altitude-related illnesses, particularly headaches and mild acute mountain sickness.
  • The findings highlight the need for better planning and education on gradual ascent to improve safety for travelers in these challenging environments.

Article Abstract

Background: High altitude pilgrims typically ascend rapidly, are not well prepared for the austere environment and tend to have multiple co-morbidities. Here, we list the trend of altitude and other illnesses who visited Humla district hospital (2,950 meters) following very rapid ascent to Kailash Mansarovar (4,500 meters).

Methods: A prospective study was conducted among 55 patients at the Humla District Hospital from September 2019 - August 2022. Patients who fell ill during pilgrimage and brought to the hospital were included. The patients were assessed with medical history and clinical examination. Lake Louise Score Acute Mountain Sickness Score (2018) was used for the diagnosis of Acute Mountain Sickness.

Results: A total of 56 evacuees visited the hospital which included 55 patients and 1 brought dead. The mean age was 50.63 ± 10.91 years. Sixteen patients (29.1%) developed symptoms within 24 hours and 15 patients (27.3%) within 48 hours of ascent. Headache 42 (76.4%) was the most common complain. Mild acute mountain sickness (30.9%; 17 patients) was the most common altitude related illness while 14 patients (25.4%) were diagnosed with non-altitude related illnesses. Twelve patients (21.8%) had co-morbidities like hypertension and diabetes mellitus.

Conclusions: In the rapidly ascending pilgrims, majority of travelers requiring medical attention are suffering from some form of altitude illnesses. Hence, proper planning and public awareness about slow and gradual ascent profile is necessary to make the travel safer.

Download full-text PDF

Source
http://dx.doi.org/10.33314/jnhrc.v20i3.4040DOI Listing

Publication Analysis

Top Keywords

acute mountain
12
patients
9
high altitude
8
altitude illness
8
rapidly ascending
8
ascending pilgrims
8
kailash mansarovar
8
altitude illnesses
8
humla district
8
district hospital
8

Similar Publications

Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?

Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!