Excellent info about altitude sickness
 

We are planning a trip to Peru, and this is a big worry of mine. I've read so many stories of nasty bouts with it. Here is great info from an authoritative source.


http://www.ismmed.org/np_altitude_tutorial.htm

Thanks for the info, julies! I'm also planning a Peru trip and am hoping to avoid any issues with altitude. I basically live at sea level, so it is a bit of a concern for me!

I have had altitude sickness and it's not pleasant to say the least. It hit at least 2 days after being at the altitude, and does go away immediately once you return to lower elevations.

The last time I went somewhere with a high altitude I was determined to not suffer. I drank plenty of fluids in advance (on the way there), and kept that up the entire time at the high altitude (had a water bottle with me at all times). I also had no caffeine or alcohol while there. I had no problems.

These preventions definitely help.

Having just returned from Peru, I will tell you the experience on our OAT tour. Half were taking Diamox (7) of those who did not, most felt some affects of the altitude. I was a bit short of breath with any exertation including just a few steps. I had one day of mild headache helped by tyelenol. One traveler(who was a bit overweight)seemed to be bothered more than I was and one gentleman slept sitting up which seemed to relieve his symptoms, but no one was really in dire straits.
By the was, our tour director was always reminding us to go slow and take it easy and we were given a bottle of water every day. We had easy access to coca tea, but remember that it is caffeinated.
Like you, I was very concerned before the trip, but I did just fine. (so maybe I didn't make it to the sungate at Machu Picchu, but I had a terrific time!)

jkr2006--

Thanks for the info on your recent trip. I am worried, but I think I will just have to take it really easy and suffer through it. I just read that I can't take Diamox because I am allergic to sulfa.

I'm so glad you told me about the caffeine in coca tea because I will have a problem with that too. I don't drink coffee or any caffeniated beverages, and if I do I can definitely feel the effects. Guess I will just have to tough it out with no possible remedies available other than aspirin.

Just stay VERY hydrated. I think that is key.

Enjoy!