I'm about to embark on a charity trek in the Andes, but I'm concerned that I'll fall victim to altitude sickness something that affected me on a previous trip to Morocco (I was unable to succeed in the challenge a huge disappointment). I know that it can affect anyone, but if there's anything I can do this time round, I'm willing to give it a go. Last time I feel I was quite unprepared.
Even the healthiest of individuals can succumb to altitude or mountain sickness although those with heart or lung problems are more susceptible. It is not an illness as such but a reaction to sudden decrease in oxygen levels which begin to dwindle significantly from altitudes of 2,500m.
Milder symptoms include light headedness, trembling, shortness of breath and headache; more serious cases may have nausea, vomiting, and difficulty in breathing. Most symptoms disappear after a couple of days because once the body has produced extra red blood cells to transport oxygen more efficiently; but until then physical exertion must be kept to a minimum not good if you are attempting a charity trek
Altitude sickness is always worse with rapid ascent, so if you are flying in just to do the trek try to arrive a few days early to give yourself a chance to acclimatise. If you do experience discomfort the following measures may help:
Symptoms are usually accompanied by increased fluid loss and dehydration; so try drinking up to 3-3.5 litres of bottled water daily (this certainly helped me when I did the Inca Trail!) As you are in the Andes, it is worth trying the local remedy for altitude sickness coca leaf tea. Coca leaves have been used for thousands of years to treat ailments from altitude and motion sickness to gastrointestinal ailments and fatigue. Interestingly, the best homeopathic remedy for altitude problems is Coca, made from the coca leaf. Try Coca 30c every 2 hours for up to 4 doses; if this does not help Cactus 30c may work better for you. Homeopathic remedies are available from Helios Pharmacy 01892 537254. You could also try Oxy-B15 by Biocare, combining CoQ10, Ginseng, Vitamins B1 C and E and Pangamic acid to help improve circulation and general oxygenation of cells and tissues.
Stella New RSHom MBANT is a registered homeopath and nutritional therapist based in West Sussex, and technical consultant for Xynergy Health Products. Prior to her training she spent many years as an expedition leader, taking groups into some of the most challenging parts of the world, where she was inspired by the use of natural remedies for treating all manner of ailments.