Winters in the Himalayas normally range between 10 degrees to around -10 degrees especially during nights. Surviving this much cold is not an easy task but if proper precautions are followed then it would become one of the best amazing experiences. However, some people do tend to get sick and face problems like Mountain sickness, frostbite and Hypothermia, out of which the worst nightmare of any mountaineer or hiker/trekker is-Hypothermia. Hypothermia is a situation in which the body loses its heat faster than it can produce it and the body temperature falls to subnormal. Factors like lack of shelter, over-exertion, inadequate food and fluids intake can trigger the situation further. Symptoms and Treatment The onset of hypothermia is typically gradual and the victim is often unaware that they need emergency medical treatment. Physical and mental capabilities of an individual gradually start diminishing. The key to successful treatment of hypothermia is early diagnosis. If you are trekking/hiking in a group, be alert to any changes in the demeanor of your hiking/trekking mates. If you are hiking solo, you need to be extra vigilant in regard to monitoring your own physical and mental state. If you notice certain unpleasant changes, take preventive measures as soon as possible. Mild to moderate Hypothermia symptoms- Slurred speech Shivering Loss of balance and coordination Loss of dexterity in the fingers Slowing in the response mechanism Severe case of Hypothermia symptoms- Shallow or no breathing. Weak or irregular pulse. Dilated pupils. Muscle rigidity. Increasingly pale skin color. Progressive loss of consciousness. Treatment While treating hypothermia the main aim is to prevent further heat loss of the body and to slowly rewarm the patient along with calling the medical help. Find or set up shelter. Remove wet clothing. Put on something warm and dry. Get into sleeping bag/blanket. Drink warm fluids. Avoid coffee and alcohol which dehydrates the body and accelerate heat loss. Eat high-energy snacks such as chocolate, dry fruits etc. Focus on rewarming the center area of the body – groin, stomach,
Winters in the Himalayas normally range between 10 degrees to around -10 degrees especially during nights. Surviving this much cold is not an easy task but if proper precautions are followed then it would become one of the best amazing experiences. However, some people do tend to get sick and face problems like Mountain sickness, frostbite and
