Altitude sickness is a problem that affects some people when visiting high-altitude locations; however, one can be prepared to avoid this condition. Here, we will tell you how to prevent altitude sickness in Cusco.
Altitude sickness is not related to physical condition, but rather to a sudden change in altitude.Altitude sickness is not related to physical condition, but rather to a sudden change in altitude.
What is soroche?
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) or soroche is caused by the lower atmospheric pressure at high altitudes, which reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood and, therefore, the organs receive less oxygen. The human body distributes oxygen throughout the body via the blood. This function is altered when one is at altitudes above 2,400 meters above sea level.
What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?
One of the organs most affected by the inadequate oxygen supply is the brain. The symptoms of soroche typically include:
Headache
Severe dizziness
Difficulty breathing
Feeling disoriented, similar to being drunk
More severe symptoms can include:
Difficulty breathing even at rest
Bluish or purple skin coloration
Chest tightness
In extremely severe cases, which are very rare, one may suffer from cerebral or pulmonary edema and death.
It is crucial to recognize the symptoms from the moment you arrive in Cusco to prevent altitude sickness.
Before engaging in physical activities that require effort, make sure you are well acclimatized.Before engaging in physical activities that require effort, make sure you are well acclimatized.
How to avoid altitude sickness?
The human body undergoes changes in its functioning when traveling to places above 2,400 meters above sea level. Soroche has no established cure. However, humans have lived in high places for thousands of years, so the remedies are well known and practiced.
Here are some recommendations to avoid altitude sickness in Cusco:
The first recommendation is to reduce the body's pace, that is, walk more slowly, climb steps one by one. Avoid overexerting the body at all times, as it is in a state of crisis due to the lack of oxygen.
The human body usually gets used to the altitude after 2 or 3 days. Although it varies depending on many factors, such as age, physical condition, and tolerance to lack of oxygen. This gradual process is known as acclimatization. Once the body has adapted, physical activities can be performed normally.
Diet is an important factor if it is the first time traveling to high altitudes or if one is particularly sensitive. A diet based on fruits, vegetables, and Andean cereals helps the body stay stable. Avoid very spicy or high-fat foods, as digestion at high altitudes is different.
Stay hydrated by drinking water (2 or 3 liters per day per person) to successfully overcome the acclimatization stage.
The coca leaf was considered sacred in the Inca Empire, and this was not just part of their beliefs but was based on its extraordinary natural qualities. Studies conducted on the coca leaf show that it contains more than 15 different alkaloids, many of which are natural regulators of the body. This makes the coca leaf a great alternative if you want to calm the body suffering from altitude sickness.
There are pills called ‘Sorojchi Pills’ that can be bought at any pharmacy in Cusco without a prescription. These help reduce the most uncomfortable symptoms (dizziness, fatigue, headache).
There are also oxygen tubes called Oxishot that can be purchased at hotels or some pharmacies. These oxygen tubes allow you to breathe as if you were at an altitude of 100 meters above sea level.
Higher altitude places in the Cusco region:
Ausangate Snow Mountain, located south of Cusco. Altitude: 6,384 meters above sea level.
Salkantay Snow Mountain, located northeast of Cusco. Altitude: 6,261 meters above sea level.
Rainbow Mountain, located south of Cusco. Altitude: 5,200 meters above sea level.
