Altitude Sickness in Cusco

Altitude sickness results from the lack of oxygen that originates when an unacclimated person ascends above 2,000 m.s.n.m. In less than 1 or 2 days.

The city of Cusco does locate at 3,350 meters.

Symptoms usually occur within 48 hours.

Possible symptoms of altitude sickness:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach ache
• A headache
• Lack of appetite
• Physical tiredness
• Insomnia or difficulty falling asleep

Prevention of Altitude Sickness:

However optimum he may be, the person’s physical state does not prevent altitude sickness. The susceptibility to contraction is inversely proportional to the subject’s age due to the maturity of the subject’s nervous system. It does not recommend using drugs to prevent it but adapting and acclimatizing progressively to the altitude.

When you arrive at your accommodation in Cusco, it is usual to receive it with a coca mate (coca tea) and then give you two hours of rest. Coca-tea must be to enjoy the rest of the trip thoroughly.

You mustn’t make any effort if you decide to take a walk in the city of Cusco it is convenient to walk in a leisurely way. However, it considers to be in optimal conditions and not to demand mainly on the first day.

One of the keys to not getting altitude sickness is staying hydrated (drink at least 3 liters daily), eating little, consuming enough coca mates, having known healing and digestive properties, and having a carbohydrate diet. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and heavy food.

If you feel short of oxygen, ask for assistance when you arrive at Cusco airport.

If you have any doubts, you should consult your doctor before making the trip to Cusco to obtain more information about altitude sickness and tell you how to act if you suffer any symptoms.