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Prevent Hypothermia With the Proper Gear for High Altitude Hiking

July 12, 2011 on 12:00 am | In Uncategorized | Comments Off

Climbing in cold weather conditions can be dangerous, especially when climbing high altitudes in wet and windy weather. Hypothermia is an extremely dangerous and potentially fatal condition that can occur at high altitudes. A person suffers from hypothermia when the body loses heat faster than it is produced. Hypothermia forces the blood vessels to constrict which prevents heat from entering the body. In this predicament, the core temperature of the body falls below 95 degrees and the person loses consciousness and slips into a coma.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia shows various symptoms such as numb finger/toes, exhaustion, incoherent speech, shivering, and violent behavior. It is easier to prevent Hypothermia than it is to control it. by taking some precautions. You should wear adequate layers; clothing that allows insulation like silk, wool and artificial fibers and anything that can preserve heat. Headgear is a must due to fact that a large amount of heat is lost from the head first. In addition, you should incorporate sugars in your meals because sugar produces body heat rather quickly.

Dehydration

There is a change in air pressure and thickness when you ascend from low level to high altitude areas. Sometimes, climbers sense shortness of breath and rapid heartbeat due to insufficient oxygen levels. When this happens, you could become dehydrated due to a lack of water in the air and severe sweating. It is imperative that you drink at least 3 liters of water to maintain electrolyte levels and potassium levels.