Manasi Parekh, a prominent actor known for her work in theatre and television, recently shared her experience of narrowly escaping the catastrophic floods in Nepal and Tibet. In a candid video on her Instagram, she discussed her encounter with Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which she attributed to a lapse in judgment during her Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. “Mountains pose significant challenges. I made the mistake of washing my hair and then falling asleep. The combination of damp hair and high altitude led to me suffering from AMS, requiring oxygen assistance. The doctor advised me against washing my hair at night,” she explained.
Dr. Amit Saraf, a specialist in internal medicine at Jupiter Hospital in Thane, elaborated on the causes of Acute Mountain Sickness. He noted that AMS typically arises when the body experiences a rapid ascent to high altitudes where oxygen levels are significantly lower. Symptoms often include headaches, nausea, dizziness, extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, and sleep disturbances. While washing hair is not a direct cause of AMS, Dr. Saraf explained that exposure to cold conditions, such as sleeping with wet hair, can exacerbate discomfort and impair the body’s ability to acclimatize effectively.
“At high altitudes, the body faces increased strain due to lower oxygen availability. Factors like cold temperatures, wet clothing, or hair, along with physical exertion and inadequate rest, can intensify this strain,” Dr. Saraf added. He emphasized the importance of staying dry and warm, although he clarified that this does not completely prevent AMS. For individuals who wash their hair, he recommended ensuring it is thoroughly dried before sleeping and maintaining warmth.
Dr. Manjusha Agarwal, a consultant in internal medicine at Gleneagles Hospital in Mumbai, echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for individuals to dry their hair completely before going to bed and keeping warm. She also highlighted the importance of ascending gradually, staying well-hydrated, and minimizing strenuous activities during the initial days of high-altitude exposure. Symptoms like persistent headaches, vomiting, severe dizziness, fatigue, or breathing difficulties should not be overlooked, as they could indicate progression to serious altitude-related conditions that necessitate immediate medical intervention.
Dr. Saraf advised that the pace of ascent is crucial for acclimatization. Travelers should allow their bodies time to adjust to higher elevations rather than rushing. Upon reaching significant altitudes, it is advisable to avoid excessive exertion initially, maintain hydration, consume adequate food, and rest sufficiently. He also recommended against alcohol consumption and strenuous exercise during the early acclimatization phase.
It is important not to dismiss mild symptoms like headaches or nausea as mere altitude effects. If these symptoms worsen, or if there are difficulties in walking, confusion, extreme drowsiness, or shortness of breath at rest, they may indicate a more severe form of altitude sickness. In such instances, seeking oxygen and descending to a lower altitude promptly is critical.
For individuals with pre-existing heart, lung, or serious medical conditions, consulting a healthcare professional before travel is imperative. Understanding the symptoms of altitude sickness and having a medical plan in place, especially when traveling to remote locations, is essential, Dr. Saraf advised.
