Abstract

Introduction: Located deep in the Himalayas, the cave of Amarnath is one of the holiest pilgrimage site for Hindus in general and Shiva followers in particular. It is regarded to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Because of high altitude, rough terrain, harsh weather, pilgrims are prone to many illnesses which sometimes these prove fatal.

Objective: To study the profile, pattern and outcome, among Shri Amarnath Ji yatri patients attending SKIMS in year 2017.

Methodology: A prospective study was carried out during the yatra period, all pilgrims of Shri Amarnath ji Yatra who were referred to SKIMS from July-August 2017 were studied and the patients were followed from admission till discharge. The profile, pattern and outcome of illness in Yatris attending Yatra in the year 2017 was compared with the results of year 2011 and 2015.

Results: Out of 97 patients received at SKIMS, 54(55.67%) were having minor ailments and were seen on OPD basis, 43(44.32%) were admitted. 32(74.41%) admitted were males at the time of arrival 14(32.5%) were Road traffic Accidents followed by 7 patients (16.27%) who were Acute Myocardial Infarction. Out of 43 admitted patients 36 (83.7%) patients improved, 1(2.32%) were discharged on request, 1(2.32%) was referred and 5(11.62%) expired.

Conclusion: Comparison of the present study with previous studies in year 2011 AND 2015 shows that the no. of injury patients had increased significantly in present study and RTA victims formed significant proportion of cases. In addition more number of patients had expired.

Keywords: Pilgrimage; Amarnathji yatra; Illness; High altitude