Health and Medicine

Trekking in high Himalayan is a true adventure. You must be fit and should be in good health. Unfortunately, unhealthy persons will not be able to trek in Himalaya. You may need a check up before you trek in the Himalaya of Nepal. Please bring all of your prescription drugs with you. Trekking Planner requires our guides to carry a first-aid kit for minor sickness and injuries. You must be careful while trekking in Nepal.

Health Problems while Trekking in Nepal

• Sore throat, cough, and common cold due to the dry mountain air. This can lead to chest infection. This problem can be solved by wearing a mask. Smoking and alcohol should be avoided at high altitudes.
  
• Diarrhea, constipation and upset stomach caused by unhealthy food and drinks. To avoid it, have a hygienic and quality food and drinks. Trekking Planner recommends places that serve hygienic food.
• Muscle pain and spasms, foot problems and blisters. Wear good footwear to protect against blisters. Be sure to bring a blister kit and use it at the first sign of a hot spot. Muscle pain can be prevented by stretching before you begin walking.
• Loss of energy, eye infection and stuffy nose. Be sure to eat healthy when trekking. For eye infections, use eye drops. For a stuffy nose, use a decongestant. Ginger tea is also helpful.

Medical Kits

A simple but adequate medical kit is useful while traveling. We recommend the following items:

• Calamine lotion to ease irritation from bites or stings.
  
• Kaolin preparation (Pepto-Bismol), Imodium or Lomita, for upset stomach.
• Antihistamine as a decongestant for colds, allergies and to help prevent motion sickness.
• Antiseptic for cuts and scrapes.
• Antibiotics for cuts.
• Aspirin or Paradox for pain or fever.
• Rehydration salts – for treatment of severe diarrhea.
• Bandages and band aids for minor injuries.
• Scissors, tweezers, thermometer, insect repellent, sun block, chopsticks, water purification tablets, throat lozenges, cough drops, moleskin, eye drops and antacid tablets are also handy.