This got me published in the Colorado Fodors Guide, but it holds true for NM:

"[To avoid altitude sickness, follow] these simple guidelines while traveling: Stay below 7,000 feet the first day�.When sightseeing, work your way up to higher altitudes. Avoid strenuous exercise the first day. Drink more water than usual since your body will dehydrate more quickly. Reduce alcohol intake, which has a greater effect at this altitude. Avoid salty foods. Give your body time to adjust (there is a lot to see and do at the lower altitude levels). If you follow these simple suggestions, you are sure to enjoy each day of your vacation."

I just arrived in ABQ from sea level and I have a headache.
Could be due to driving all day, too!

I have experienced altitude sickness in the past.

This helped me

Drink lots of water.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Take a Tylenol or Ibuprofen if you would for 'normal' headaches.

If altitude sickness is causing you distress and you really want to beat it; may I suggest a tip from high-altitude mountaineers?
Go up high and then descend to sleep.
You could go to Santa Fe for the day and come back down to ABQ to sleep before reascending.

Thread started 10 years ago, revived 7, and now this.