Altitude+Adjustment

= Altitude Adjustment =

Machu Picchu is something that Peru is known for. When choosing to climb those ancient ruins, it is important to know some information about how the huge altitude change can affect someone. There are certain things that happen to a person's body when they are going through major changes in altitude. Altitude sickness is a common side effect of this. This is caused by acute exposure to low partial pressure of oxygen at high altitude. Typically minor symptoms start to occur at altitudes levels of about 5,000 feet, this mostly includes breathlessness. When altitudes above 8,000 feet are reached altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS) starts.

It is hard to tell who or how the AMS may affect someone. The symptoms present themselves as nonspecific. They can even present themselves as a case of the flu or carbon monoxide poisoning. However, there are a lot of people who can accent to 8,000 feet without any problems. Acute mountain sickness can progress to high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high altitude cerebral edema (HACE). Both of these are potentially fatal and can only be treated by changing to a lower latitude immediately or the administration of oxygen.

There are a few things that can be done to prevent altitude sickness. The first is to take it easy. Most of the people on the trails of Machu Picchu will be walking anyway because it is such a long hike. This will help your body adjust. Going to hard can make it even more difficult to catch your breath because the oxygen particles are more spread out in the air. It is also important to stay hydrated. There should be plenty of fluids consumed. High elevations can cause fluid loss. Try and stick to mostly water or liquids that will replace electrolytes. Additionally, a diet that contains more carbohydrates will make it easier for your body to absorb oxygen. On the other hand, avoid salty foods because an increased sodium intake can increase blood pressure. When your blood pressure is increased, symptoms of altitude sickness can be increased.

Now that the symptoms of altitude sickness and the ways to help with altitude adjustment have been covered… You are now ready for Machu Picchu!

By: McKayla Holmes