Mount Qomolangma Base Camp has introduced a cutting-edge hyperbaric oxygen chamber that's proving to be a lifesaver for tourists grappling with acute mountain sickness during the National Day holiday.
On October 3, a tourist suffering from severe altitude sickness was swiftly treated in the chamber. Within just 30 minutes, his blood oxygen saturation surged from a dangerous 44 percent to a healthy 97 percent, and his heart rate stabilized at 107 beats per minute, according to a technology company invested in by the China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC).
The operator of the chamber reported to Chongqing-based media outlet Shangyou News that since its launch in July, the facility has seen a daily influx of 20 to 30 tourists during the holiday period, nearly reaching its full capacity.
Developed by the CSCEC, this state-of-the-art chamber was showcased at the 2023 Western China International Fair. It boasts integrated systems for air compression, drying, filtering, and pressure stabilization, along with an automatic control system to regulate atmospheric pressure, oxygen levels, temperature, and humidity. By simulating lower-altitude conditions, the chamber provides a comfortable haven for those affected by altitude sickness.
\"Blood oxygen saturation typically increases from around 50 percent to 80-90 percent within 15 to 30 minutes in the chamber,\" a representative told Shangyou News. \"Tourists can significantly alleviate altitude sickness symptoms within half an hour.\"
Visitors have taken to social media to share their experiences. On October 5, one traveler wrote, \"No more worries about altitude sickness at Qomolangma Base Camp, thanks to the new pressurized oxygen chamber. The mountaineering environment is truly improving.\" The post, accompanied by an image of the chamber and its slogan \"two minutes from plateau to plain,\" has sparked curiosity among potential visitors.
The Qomolangma Base Camp, located 19 kilometers from Mount Qomolangma in Tingri County of Xigaze City in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, stands as the highest point accessible to ordinary tourists. It's also a starting point for climbers and researchers aiming for the summit. At this altitude, the air contains only about 48 percent of the oxygen found at sea level, making altitude sickness a common challenge.
The introduction of the hyperbaric oxygen chamber marks a significant step in enhancing the safety and comfort of tourists and adventurers at the base camp, encouraging more visitors to experience the majesty of the world's highest peak without the debilitating effects of altitude sickness.
Reference(s):
Qomolangma's new hyperbaric oxygen chamber a lifesaver for tourists
cgtn.com
