TRISHUL HEALERS TRAVELLING TO LADAKH DOs and DONTs The Leh Ladakh sector is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful terrains in the world. It is entirely located at heights of 11,000 ft and above mean sea level. The beautiful terrain also is one of t he harshest with low atmospheric oxygen, air pressure and temperatu res compared to any other hill station. Hence the human body is subjected to varying levels of stress. Please take care of your health to have a memorable trip. HEALTH IS TOP MOST PRIORITY DOs 1. Acclimatization : On arrival to Leh (about 11000 ft above MSL), take two days absolute rest and allow the body to acclimatize and then proceed further fo r only sightseeing and not for rigorous adventure activities. Rigorous physical activity requi res 6 days of acclimatization. Places like Tangtse & Pangong Tso Lake , Tso Moriri Lake are at heights greater than 13000 ft. Hence the body needs longer acclimatization. 2. Drink plenty of water (More than 5 l itres / day). 3. Eat healthy food in adequa te quantities (even though you may experience loss of appetite) because your body needs lot of energy to adapt to the changing environment and t o keep yourself warm. 4. Wear adequate warm clothing 5. Use sunglasses (polarized) and sunscreen (SPF 50+) t o avoid damage to eyes and skin due to direct UV exposure. 6. Apply moisturizer over the skin and lips to avoid painful cracks due to dry air. 7. Change damp clothing and socks immediately. 8. You may experience some amount of breathlessness, palpitatio ns and light headedness which may be normal for the adapting body. 9. But in case these symptoms or any of the under mentioned symptoms persist /worsen, avail medical support immediately: a) Headache b) Nausea/ Vomiting c) Insomnia d) Chest pain e) Loss of consciousness f) Cough with pink sputum g) Weakness of limbs/ difficulty in speech/ walking DO NOT TAKE ANY SYMPTOM LIGHTLY DONTs 1. Avoid alcohol/ tobacco consumption. 2. Do not over exert 3. Do not leave kerosene heaters or bukharis on whi le sleeping or when not present in the room. Fire accidents can be fatal. 4. Do not take night walks alone. Dogs, especially wild breeds prevalent in this region are very aggressive and hunt in packs. Keep a cane with you to ward off animals in case you m ust go out. 5. Do not directly touch metallic/ electric appliances. Use gloves pre ferably when doing so to avoid static electricity which is a common problem here. 6. Don't fall into the trap of travel agencies who cram a tight itinerary into a small sch edule. Take adequate rest and avoid over exertion.