What diseases you should know about before going on a mountain trek

When preparing for a trek, we usually think about routes, weather, and gear. But health is a traveler's most important asset, and in the mountains, it faces unique challenges. Far from civilization, with changing climates and high altitude, your body experiences stress. In some countries, particularly in Asia or Africa, you may also encounter infectious environments unfamiliar to you.

First Aid on a Hike: Burns, Overheating, and Hypothermia

Our body is an amazing system that can effectively maintain a constant temperature. And there are good reasons for this. As I already wrote in the guide on temperature conditions, the critical threshold for a person ranges from 28.8 °C (fatal hypothermia) to 42.7 °C (fatal overheating). But even a slight deviation from the ideal 36.8 °C makes us feel extremely uncomfortable.

First Aid for Fractures and Dislocations in a Mountain Hike

In the wilderness, far from the city, it's crucial to be able to distinguish a serious injury from a minor bruise and provide proper first aid before medics arrive or you can transport the victim. Let's look at two of the most complex cases: fractures and dislocations.

First Aid for Wounds on a Hike: A Survival Guide

In a hiking or camping environment, even a tiny scratch can turn into a serious problem. The main dangers associated with any skin injury are the risk of infection (sepsis) and severe blood loss. Therefore, it is crucial to act quickly and correctly.

First Aid for Choking: The Heimlich Maneuver on a Hike

Even in the fresh air of the wilderness, a good appetite hits hard, and eating at a camp or rest stop is one of the great pleasures of hiking. But in the mountains or forest, whether you're in a hurry or just distracted by conversation, it's easy to forget to chew your food thoroughly. It's in these moments that choking is most likely to happen: a piece of food goes down the wrong pipe, blocking the trachea and cutting off the airway.

Wilderness First Aid: How to Handle Fainting and Rescue Breathing

Being prepared for emergencies is crucial when hiking or camping. Knowing basic life-saving techniques can mean the difference between life and death while waiting for professional medical help. Here is a guide to handling two critical situations: unconsciousness and stopped breathing.

First Aid in the Mountains: Skills That Can Save a Life

In the wilderness, far from civilization and city hospitals, the ability to administer first aid becomes more than just a useful skill—it becomes a necessity. When you are in the mountains, there is no ambulance that can arrive in ten minutes. This is why the responsibility for the health and life of the group lies with every single member.