【Blog】Stop Exercising before Going to Tibet!

Tibet has an average height of more than 4,000 meters. Altitude sickness is the main concern for most travelers. Before going to Tibet, we'd better to make some preparations in advance to get ready!

What is high altitude sickness

Altitude sickness, also called acute mountain sickness (AMS), is the negative health effect of high altitude, caused by rapid exposure to low amounts of oxygen at high elevation.

You are likely to feel it starting from 2500m. Different people may react and acclimatize differently but the risk of the sickness increases with ascending altitude.

Symptom of high altitude sickness

1.Headache is the most common symptom of the sickness.

2.Other symptoms: nausea, vomiting, fatigue, decreased appetite and sleep disturbances. Your body tries to adapt to the thinner air by breathing more quickly and deeply.

3.The symptom usually happens within 1-3 days of your arrival in Tibet. 

Rumor

About altitude sickness, there is a deep misunderstanding: People with stronger body, who exercise a lot, will get acclimatized better and more quickly.

The truth may surprise you because as a matter of fact, travelers with average health condition is more likely to get used to the altitude.

Truth

Altitude sickness is not linked with the physical fitness directly but with the cardiopulmonary function.

Simply speaking, your body's need for oxygen decides if you get the altitude sickness or not.

Many travelers will do more exercises before going to Tibet, assuming it will help to relieve the sickness. Actually, this action may increase your body's need for oxygen, thus causing a bigger risk of AMS.

Preventive Measures

1.Stop Exercising in Advance

Stop exercising one week before your Tibet trip to keep your body in a relaxed conition. More exercises, not only increase oxygen consumption, but also increase the burden to the heart.

2.Get Enough Sleep

Adjust your work and rest schedule to get enough sleep. Enough sleep plays an important role on altitude sickness prevention.

3.Keep in Good Mood

The most important thing is to have a good attitude and keep a stable mood. Altitude sickness isn't as scary as you imagine. Most people will suffer from it but get used to it quickly. It's a normal experience especially if you are the first time to Tibet.

4.Drink Much Water

After entering Tibet, drink much water, eat more fruits, take more rest and do not do any strenuous exercise or drink alcohol.

Emergency Prevention

1.Oxygen

Proper oxygen intake will relieve high symptoms. It's the most common action taken if you feel the sickness in early stage.

2.Hospital Treatment

If oxygen doesn't help, we may consider to go to a hospital for treatment. The doctor may give your more oxygen or infusions to relieve the symptoms depending on your current condition.

3.Go to Lower Place

Descending to a lower place is the most effective way as when you go down, the oxygen content in the air increases accordingly.

Contact us for your lifetime travel to Tibet and let us get you ready for the wonderful high pleatau!