Everest Base Camp Altitude Sickness - Introduction and Cause
Technically an ascent of Everest Base Camp is classified as entry into the Extremely High altitude zone. Altitude is defined on the following scale: High Altitude Classification of Zones
- High 2,500 - 3,500 metres
- Very High 3,500 - 5,500 metres
- Extremely High 5,500+ metres
No specific factors such as age, sex, or physical condition can be used to predict susceptibility to altitude sickness. Some get it and others simply don't. Most people can go up to 2,500 m without significant discomfort.
What Causes Altitude Sickness?
At sea level, the air consists of approximately 21% oxygen, and the average barometric pressure is around 1 bar (1000 mbar). As you ascend to higher altitudes, the concentration of oxygen in the air remains the same, but due to the decrease in pressure, there are fewer oxygen molecules per breath.
At an altitude of 3,500 metres, the barometric pressure drops to about 630 mbar (depending on weather conditions), resulting in approximately 40% fewer oxygen molecules per breath. Consequently, even when at rest, you must increase your breathing rate to ensure an adequate oxygen supply to your body.
This heightened breathing helps increase the oxygen content in your blood, although not to the same levels as at sea level. Since the body requires the same amount of oxygen for activities, it must adapt to functioning with less oxygen. This adaptation process is known as acclimatisation. Failing to allow your body sufficient time to undergo this process may lead to a potentially dangerous condition called acute mountain sickness (AMS).
The Yoga retreat camp is nestled in Nagarkot, a tranquil village in the Bhaktapur district, about 25 km from Kathmandu. The drive from Kathmandu takes around 2 hours. This peaceful location offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and is surrounded by lush green hills, making it the perfect retreat for those seeking peace and a connection with nature. The retreat features a blend of daily yoga, meditation, sound healing sessions, and hikes in the nearby hills.
On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, once you've passed through Immigration and retrieved your luggage, please look out for your Team Mount Everest driver carrying a placard with your name who will transfer you to Hotel Buddy for overnight on bed and breakfast basis.
On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, once you've passed through Immigration and retrieved your luggage, please look out for your Team Mount Everest driver carrying a placard with your name who will transfer you to Hotel Buddy for overnight on bed and breakfast basis.
On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, once you've passed through Immigration and retrieved your luggage, please look out for your Team Mount Everest driver carrying a placard with your name who will transfer you to Hotel Buddy for overnight on bed and breakfast basis.