How to handle Machu Picchu’s altitude sickness?
Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, for a good reason.The ancient Inca city is shrouded in mystery and its location in the Andes Mountains is truly impressive. Nestled in the mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu is known for its stunning scenery and marvelous ruins.
But what many visitors don’t realize is that Machu Picchu is also one of the highest cities in the world, with an elevation of over 7,000 feet. This can make it difficult for some people to adjust to the altitude and can cause altitude sickness.
What is altitude sickness and why does it happen?
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS) and soroche in Peru, is a condition that can occur when you travel to high altitudes, usually 7,000 feet (2,133 meters) or more above sea level. It most often occurs when people travel quickly from a lower altitude to a higher one, such as when hiking or climbing mountains.
Altitude Sickness can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. The symptoms usually start within 12 to 24 hours after you reach a high altitude. Symptoms of altitude sickness include:
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Shortness of breath
Fatigue, and difficulty sleeping
Lightheadedness or dizziness
Loss of appetite
Swelling hands, feet, and face
If you have AMS, you may also have a rapid heartbeat, increased urination, and walking difficulties. In severe cases, you may have fluid in your lungs (high-altitude pulmonary edema) or fluid in your brain (high-altitude cerebral edema).
Altitude sickness happens because when you travel to high altitudes, there is less oxygen in the air. This can cause discomfort because your body needs oxygen to work well. Altitude sickness happens when your body can’t get enough oxygen. It usually starts within 6 to 12 hours after you reach a high altitude.
How to avoid altitude sickness when visiting Machu Picchu?
There are a few things you can do to prevent altitude sickness when visiting Machu Picchu. First, it’s important to take it slow. If you’re not used to being at high altitudes, it can be helpful to spend a few days acclimating to the elevation in Cusco, which is about 3,400 feet (3400 meters- 11000 feet) above sea level. Avoid strenuous activity for the first day or two, and drink plenty of fluids.
Once you’re at Machu Picchu, take your time walking around and don’t overdo it. If you start to feel any symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, or fatigue, take a break and rest.
It’s also important to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. It’s always a good idea to avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate your body. And, be sure to eat light meals and avoid greasy food.
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart or lung disease, be sure to talk to your doctor before visiting Machu Picchu. If you have a history of getting altitude sickness, you may want to take medication to help prevent it.
What to do if you get altitude sickness while hiking Machu Picchu?
Altitude sickness is a serious condition, but it is treatable. If you have headaches, nausea, vomiting or any of the symptoms listed before, you should go down to a lower altitude as soon as possible.
Another simple treatment that can help if you can’t leave quickly is to rest. Rest is the most important thing, so if you can, lie down and relax. Taking ibuprofen can also help with headaches. And make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
If your symptoms are severe, or if you have any underlying health conditions, it’s important to see a doctor. There are some medications that can be used to treat AMS, but in some cases, you may need to be evacuated to a lower altitude.
With a little preparation, altitude sickness doesn’t have to ruin your trip to Machu Picchu. By following these tips, you can enjoy all that this amazing place has to offer. If you feel ready for the hike, you can enjoy Machu Picchu from the early hours with our Morning in Machu Picchu Tour.
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