Located in the Khumbu section of Sagarmatha National Park, the Everest Three Passes trek is a popular trekking destination for experienced trekkers. This trek takes you closer to the highest peak in the world and you can witness some of the most beautiful views of the iconic Mount Everest and its breathtaking scenery.
The trail of the Everest Three Passes trek is filled with adventure and breathtaking landscapes. Those who walk in the Everest Three Pass trekking route will be amazed by the natural beauty of the Everest region since it is one of the most loved treks; one of the biggest challenges that trekkers have to face on this route is dealing with altitude sickness.
Experienced trekkers know how to handle altitude sickness, but if you’re a beginner trekking for the first time in the Everest region, you need to learn about altitude sickness, its symptoms and preventive measures.
What is Altitude Sickness, and Why is it a Threat?
The first thing that you need to understand is what altitude sickness is. Acute mountain sickness, the mildest type of altitude sickness, is a negative consequence of high altitude that is brought on by prolonged exposure to low oxygen levels. Different people’s bodies react differently to high altitudes. So very few trekkers experience the symptoms of altitude sickness when they reach at high altitude as their body cannot adapt to high altitude.
Altitude sickness in the early stage is called Acute Mountain Sickness(AMS). When these symptoms get worse, it leads to an advanced form of altitude sickness, which is High altitude pulmonary oedema (HAPE) and high altitude cerebral oedema (HACE). These both are life-threatening, and sometimes they might cause negative effects on the health conditions of trekkers and even endanger their lives.
Altitude sickness can be a threat during the Everest Three Passes trekking because it takes you to challenging mountain passes, Kongma La Pass(5,535m) and Renjo La Pass(5,360m). While walking at such a high altitude, the chances of getting altitude sickness increase.
Altitude sickness can be cured easily at the early stage(AMS), so to avoid major health issues which can arise when symptoms get worse, we need to prepare in advance.
Types of Altitude Sickness
- Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): AMS is the initial stage of altitude sickness, where you will experience common symptoms like headache, nausea, and fatigue.
- High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): If AMS is not treated in the early stage then it can lead to HAPE. In this stage, fluid will collect in the lungs and cause shortness of breath and chest pressure.
- High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): HACE is a life-threatening condition of altitude sickness, and in this stage, there will be swelling of the brain, which can lead to confusion, loss of coordination and even chances of coma.
Recognizing the Symptoms: Knowing the Warning Signs
Mild AMS Symptoms
Below are the early signs of altitude sickness that you need to be aware of while trekking in the high altitude of Everest Three Passes Trek.
- Headache: First and most common symptom.
- Nausea and Vomiting: From minor discomfort to uncontrollable vomiting.
- Fatigue and Weakness: Feeling exhausted and lack of energy.
- Dizziness and Lightheadedness: Hard to maintain balance.
- Loss of Appetite: A decreased desire to eat.
- Difficulty Sleeping: Insomnia or restless sleep.
Moderate AMS Symptoms
- Worsening headache
- Persistent vomiting
- Shortness of breath, even at rest
- Fatigue that does not improve with rest
Severe Symptoms (HAPE and HACE)
- Wheezing, coughing, or a gurgling sound in the chest (HAPE)
- Extreme confusion or unable to perform simple tasks (HACE)
- Loss of physical coordination
- Seizures or unconsciousness
Note: While trekking you need to inform your health conditions to your trekking Guide and how you are feeling. Don’t ignore any symptoms of AMS which can worsen the situation.
Altitude Profile of the Three Passes Trek and Associated Risks
Everest Three Passes Trek is one of the most challenging treks in the Everest region, where you need to pass challenging mountain passes like Kongma La (5,535m), Cho La (5,420m), and Renjo La (5,360m). The route takes you to an altitude where there will be a low amount of oxygen in the air, raising the risk of altitude sickness.
Here’s an overview of the trek’s itinerary and altitude profile:
Day 1-2: Fly to Lukla and trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m) – an ideal place for acclimatization.
Day 3-4: Trek to Tengboche (3,870m) and Dingboche (4,410m).
Day 5: Acclimatization in Dingboche.
Day 6-8: Trek through Kongma La Pass and onwards to Lobuche (4,940m) and Gorak Shep (5,164m).
Day 9-11: Cross Cho La Pass(5,420 m) and trek to Gokyo (4,800m).
Day 12-14: Renjo La Pass( 5,360 m)adventure and trek back to Namche Bazaar.
Risk Zones on the Trek
- Namche to Tengboche: Trekkers can experience mild symptoms where they ascend too quickly.
- Kongma La and Cho La Passes: High altitudes and steep ascents make these sections hotspots for severe altitude sickness.
- Gokyo Region: Due to the cold climate and altitude, chances of altitude sickness increase
Altitude Sickness Prevention & Acclimatization Strategies For Everest Three Passes Trek
While trekking on this challenging and adventurous journey of Everest Three Passes trek you can definitely avoid the risk of altitude sickness. Here is how.
1. Go Slow and Steady
While you are on an easy trail, you might feel like walking faster, and you will gain altitude quickly, which is one of the main causes of AMS. Ascend slowly and steadily and give your body enough time to rest so it can adjust to altitude.
2. Plan Acclimatization Days
You can find many itineraries for the Everest Three Passes trek depending on the route and places you want to explore. No matter which itinerary you choose, make sure that it includes proper acclimatization days. Proper acclimatization days help you to provide enough rest and adjust your body according to the altitude.
3. Hydrate Frequently
Keeping your body not only makes your health good but also helps to avoid altitude symptoms. Every day while you are on a trek, aim to drink at least 3 ltr of water, and avoid drinking alcohol and excessive caffeine as it can cause dehydration and trigger altitude sickness.
4. Eat High-Energy Foods
You will need high energy for the Everest Three Passes trek, and the high energy comes from the food that is high in energy, like the traditional Nepali dish Dal Bhat Curry, egg, oatmeal, bananas, nuts, yoghurt, etc. Eat fresh, greenery and balanced diet food, which helps to boost your energy during the trek.
5. Consider Acetazolamide (Diamox)
One of the most popular medicines for altitude sickness is Diamox. This medicine helps to control the altitude sickness effect when you are trekking in high altitude areas. You can consult with the doctor regarding the Everest Three Passes trek and know whether it’s an appropriate option to take it or not. Remember that Diamox will not cure altitude sickness once you catch the symptoms.
6. Know When to Turn Back
While you are undertaking the Everest Three Passes trek, your health and safety should be your top priority. If you observe any symptoms of altitude sickness you need to inform your trekking Guide. After examining your body, they will tell you whether you can rest and continue or descend to a lower altitude.
Practical Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Three Passes Trek
Here are some extra tips to help you during the Everest Three Passes trek to make it more achievable and successful:
- Hire a Reputable Trekking Company: When you trek with a reputed trekking agency like Namaste Nepal, they will provide you experience trekking guide. Their expertise will help to recognize the symptoms and manage altitude sickness during the Everest Three Passes trek. Additionally, they will assist you if you need an evacuation plan if necessary.
- Monitor Your Oxygen Saturation: Your blood oxygen saturation levels can be determined with a pulse oximeter. This could help you in identifying possible problems early.
- Listen to Your Body: Nobody will know your health better than you, so pay close attention to your body while trekking at high altitudes, especially crossing mountain passes. If you experience any symptoms immediately,diately inform your trekking Guide and descend to a lower altitude for recovery.
- Communicate Openly: You might feel awkward communicating while trekking in a group if you are the only person who is having difficulty. In such conditions, don’t be afraid to discuss your health condition with your trekking Guide if you are struggling.
- Pack Appropriately: Pack proper clothing items, gear and equipment to protect yourself from harsh weather.
- Travel Insurance: Another important thing that you need while undertaking the challenging Everest Three Pass Trek is Travel Insurance. Your travel insurance must cover high altitude risk up to 6,000m and emergency medical facilities, including evacuation plans.
Real-Life Experiences
During the Everest Three Passes trek, a trekker named Sophia from the US began experiencing altitude sickness symptoms at about 5,100m while heading for Kongma La Pass. She noticed that She had a persistent headache and slight dizziness, thinking it was normal while heading at such an altitude. She ignored it and moved further with her group, ignoring the Guide’s advice.
Later, before she reaches Lobuche tea house, her symptoms get worse. Her body gets difficult to adapt to the altitude. Seeing her situation Guide decide to make an extra acclimatization day so that she can rest well and recover. She followed all the Guide’s advice, and a rest day at Lobuche was a game changer for her. She recovered fully by taking rest, drinking enough water and taking medicine. Completing the Three Passes Trek would not have been possible if she hadn’t stuck to the acclimatization plan and the Guide’s advice.
Conclusion
One of the major obstacles that trekkers need to face while undertaking the Everest Three Passes trek is altitude sickness. But it can be avoided with careful planning and preparation, and it can be managed. While trekking at high altitude, follow the Guide’s instructions, hydrate enough, ascend slowly and rest when you feel, know your limit and stay safe.
The Everest Three Passes trek is one of the most adventurous treks in the Everest Region, which you should do once in your lifetime for unforgettable memories. Always remember, your health comes first. Be responsible, follow sustainable tourism practices and enjoy your trip to the fullest.
