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When we ascend to altitudes greater than 2500 metres our bodies must adapt to having less oxygen, and in the meantime we may develop altitude sickness. Different people acclimatise at different rates and being young and physically fit is no protection. The best strategy is to take your time and drink plenty of water (a minimum of 3 litres a day). Drinking coca tea may also help, and eating light meals and abstaining from alcohol are also recommended. The risk increases with faster ascents, higher altitude and greater exertion. To allow our bodies to adjust we have structured our treks with slow ascents to allow for acclimatisation. We strongly recommend that you spend a minimum of 2 days in Huaraz before setting off on your trek. During the acclimatisation process, you may experience some of the following symptoms: headache, tiredness, dizziness, disturbed sleep, loss of appetite, nausea, shortness of breath, cough, palpitation, swelling of the hands and face. These symptoms may not indicate the onset of Acute Mountain Sickness, and do not necessarily mean you should not continue.
All QUECHUANDES guides are highly experienced in the mountains and have extensive first aid training so we encourage you to tell your guide of any symptoms so they can keep an eye on you. The only cure for Acute Mountain Sickness is to descend. Please note that your guide has ultimate responsibility and may ask you to descend if symptoms persist. Altitude sickness must be taken seriously as it can be life threatening when severe. |
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