| 1. |
At higher altitude, breathing becomes difficult especially for the elderly. This could give rise to many medical problems. |
| 2. |
Those suffering from or susceptible to any heart ailments, especially pilgrims above the age of 55 yrs should heed the following warnings. This also applies to pilgrims with diabetes, blood pressure, high cholesterol etc. |
| 3. |
Before setting out on your pilgrimage, consult your physician and undergo a medical check up inclusive of ECG. |
| 4. |
Those with heart ailments or those prone to heart diseases must avoid undertaking the pilgrimage during peak seasons when there is heavy crowding. |
| 5. |
Carry along a diary in which your maladies as well names of advised prescription drugs are mentioned. |
| 6. |
If you are under medication for heart ailments or blood pressure, under no circumstances should you suddenly terminate intake of these medicines unless advised by your physician. |
| 7. |
People with heart ailments must climb slopes gently and slowly. Do not be in a hurry. Rest frequently. |
| 8. |
Keep a check on your pulse. If your pulse goes above 140 beats per minute or is showing signs of irregularity in rhythm, seek the services of a doctor. |
| 9. |
Do not climb with after having consumed full meals. Keep your meals light during the pilgrimage. |
| 10 |
While climbing up to Sannidhanam, if you experience any breathlessness, giddiness or chest pain, cease climbing immediately. Enroute, there are enough medical camps and oxygen parlours. Please seek attention from a doctor. |
| 11. |
If you have been advised to take medicines please follow the prescribed dosage. Do not exceed the dosage lest it cause other problems. |
| 12. |
Please be aware that if your blood sugar level is low, it results in 'hypoglycemia'. Indications are sweating, tiredness, dizziness etc. You are likely to faint during climbs. Stop your climb immediately. Consume some light food. Carry along some chocolates or sugar. If 'hypoglycemia' hits you, consume some chocolate or sugar. |
| 13. |
Those suffering from very high blood pressure, must get themselves examined by a physician and must discontinue the pilgrimage if the blood pressure remains high. |
| 14. |
Breathlessness - The cause could be anything from common problems like asthma, chronic bronchitis, heavy smoking to the pollution by dust and smoke, low temperature etc. Please consult your physician and get yourself attended to. This must be done well before the pilgrimage as the medications prescribed by the physician will some time/days to have its full effect. |
| 15. |
Pollution of water bodies occurs due to heavy crowds and unsanitary practices. This could bring in water borne diseases like hepatitis, typhoid, cholera, diarrhoea, amoebiasis, food poisoning etc. Possibility of airborne infections are also there. These include influenza, pneumonia, mumps, chicken pox, conjunctivitis etc. So boil water before consuming. |
| 16. |
Persons with any infectious disease must avoid undertaking the pilgrimage till the infection has been cured. |
| 17. |
Maintain Cleanliness. |
