Trekking and mountaineering are undeniably thrilling activities that offer unparalleled views and an opportunity to truly immerse oneself in nature. However, these activities also come with potential risks and uncertainties. It is important to comprehend and evaluate the potential health risks associated with trekking. Preparing well for emergencies when going on trekking expeditions is essential to ensure safety and well-being. In this guide, we will discuss the importance of carrying essential medications, their purposes, and guidelines for their usage that every trekker should consider.
- Understanding the risks
Before taking any medication while trekking, it is important to be aware of the potential risks so that you can take preventive measures to mitigate or avoid them. During a trek, common medical emergencies include altitude sickness, injuries such as sprains, strains, cuts, gastrointestinal problems, and dehydration. These problems are often caused by factors like altitude, weather conditions, and individual health considerations.
- Building a personalized medical kit
A properly stocked first aid kit is vital when trekking. It will help the trekkers to enjoy the view with comfort and safety. It's important to customize the kit according to individual needs, including factors such as duration, destination, and personal health. A well-equipped kit should include essential items such as scissors, adhesive tape, bandages, crepe bandages, tweezers, a thermometer, and CPR masks.
- Essential Emergency medicines
- Paracetamol – It is used to treat mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, toothaches or even sprains, body aches, and fever.
- Cetirizine or montelukast +fexofenadine- It is Used to treat the common cold, and treats allergy symptoms such as itching, sneezing, or runny nose. It is advisable to take this medicine at night after dinner and get some rest.
- Domperidone or Ondansetron – This medication is used to alleviate vomiting or nausea symptoms.
- Doxycycline + Ambroxol, and Ascoril – It is Primarily used to treat cough associated with respiratory diseases such as asthma or bronchitis.
- Ofloxacin +ornidazole – It is effective in treating diarrhea caused due to indigestion and controlling bowel movements.
- Norfloxacin+ Tinidazole- It is used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and severe stomach infections.
- Drotin DS or Drotaverine – It helps in relieving stomach aches or spasms.
- Ciprofloxacin (eyedrop)- It is used to treat watery eyes, red eyes, or ophthalmalgia.
- Aceclofenac + Paracetamol – It works effectively in reducing back pain, body pain, or arthritis.
- Volini spray "It provides immediate relief for leg sprains, twists, and muscle pain."
- Aluminum Hydroxide + Magnesium Hydroxide, Pan 40- It is used to relieve acid indigestion and upset stomach.
- Amoxicillin with potassium clavulanate – It is used as an antibiotic to treat burns, cuts, and injuries.
- Azithromycin 500+Paracetamol+ Montelukast- These are used to treat various bacterial infections, colds, or prolonged fever.
The following information provided above is mentioned in tabular form to help you out more efficiently.
| PROBLEM | MEDICINE NAME | DOSAGE |
| Headache, body ache, fever | Paracetamol 650 | Take one tablet three times a day after meals. |
| Common cold | Cetrizine or montelukas+fexofenadine | Take one tablet after dinner every day. |
| Vomiting tendency or vomiting | Domperidone or Ondansetron | 1 tablet three times a day, half an hour before each meal. |
| Coughing | Doxycycline + Ambroxol, and Ascoril | To take doxycycline, you need to take 1 tablet every day for three days, either in the morning or in the evening. Take 2 spoons of Ambroxol or Ascoril three times a day. |
| Loose motions or diarrhea | Ofloxacin +ornidazole | Take one dose twice a day. |
| Dysentery and stomach infections | Norfloxacin+ Tinidazole | Take one dose twice a day. |
| Stomach ache or spasms | Drotin DS or Drotaverine | Take one dose thrice a day |
| Watery eyes or red eyes | Ciprofloxacin (eyedrop) | 1 drop 4 times a day (both eyes) |
| Muscle pain or arthritis | Aceclofenac + Paracetamol | Take one dose twice a day after a meal |
| Leg twists and sprains | Volini spray | - |
| Acidity | Aluminum Hydroxide + Magnesium Hydroxide syrup, Pan 40 | Take 2-3 teaspoons of syrup along with 1 Pan 40 tablet before meal. |
| Cuts and injuries | Amoxicillin with potassium clavulanate | Take one tablet once a day, either in the morning or in the evening. |
| Prolonged fever or cold | Azithromycin 500+Paracetamol+ Montelukast | Take one tablet once a day, either in the morning or in the evening. |
- Additional considerations
- By regularly checking the expiry dates of your medications, you can ensure that you are taking them safely and effectively. Don't risk taking expired medication. Replace any that have passed their expiration date as soon as possible to ensure your health and well-being.
- A medical manual or reference guide can be a lifesaver in times of emergencies. Ensure you carry one with you for quick and efficient responses during critical situations.
- It is recommended to store medications in a waterproof container or packaging to prevent them from exposure to moisture and environmental temperature fluctuations.
- When traveling to higher altitudes, it is important to carry sunscreen to protect yourself from increased UV exposure, which can cause sunburns and radiation damage.
- It's important to bring enough water and snacks to avoid dehydration, which can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other health issues.
- Carry an insect repellant to avoid insect bites and stings which can lead to discomfort and potential allergic reactions.
- Make sure to pack blister treatment supplies and bring layers of clothing, including waterproof gear, to stay dry and comfortable.
The medicines and remedies mentioned here are shared solely based on personal experience and are not prescribed or recommended by a licensed medical professional. We strongly advise you to consult a qualified doctor or healthcare provider before using any of the mentioned medications. Self-medication can be harmful—always seek professional medical guidance for diagnosis and treatment.
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