9 Health Pointers for Those Planning to Go on the Amarnath Yatra

The home ministry has issued a health advisory for all those planning to go on the Amarnath Yatra this year.

Hindu pilgrims trek through mountains to reach the holy cave of Lord Shiva in Amarnath. (Photo: Reuters)    

The Home Ministry on Friday issued an 18-point health advisory for the Amarnath Yatra pilgrims.

The advisory carries 14 do’s and four don’ts for those going on the journey. Here are nine of those pointers that you absolutely must pay attention to.

• Pilgrims must achieve physical fitness before starting Amarnath Yatra. They should start with a preparatory morning and evening walk of about 4-5 kilometres every day from a month prior to the pilgrimage.
  
• Those having difficulty in breathing are advised to carry portable oxygen along.
  
• Amarnath Yatra involves trekking at altitudes as high as 14,000 feet which may lead to pilgrims developing symptoms like loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, drowsiness, chest tightness, fast breathing and increased heart rate.
  
• If high-altitude sickness is not treated in a timely manner, it may be lethal in a matter of hours.
  
• Pilgrims are advised to start deep breathing exercises, yoga, and drinking lots of water to combat dehydration and headaches.
  
• Pilgrims must check with a physician prior to travelling to higher elevations.
  
• Pilgrims must follow the prescribed food menu available at Amarnath shrine board’s website and check when to have food during travelling.
  
• In case of any signs of high-altitude sickness or any other discomfort, immediately contact the nearest medical facility located every two kilometres.
  
• Pilgrims are advised to give up drinking alcohol and smoking.