Physical Preparation and Altitude Sickness
PHYSICAL PREPARATION PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
For all of us going to the “El Camino Del Apu Ausangate” we should stress the need of an acclimatization period, needless to say is that those in good physical condition, enjoy it more, we will go over a mountain pass of 5150 meters above the sea level, remember to drink lots of water and/ or coca tea, The days normally are beautiful and the air is thin and briskly in the morning the temperatures range from 32° to 75°, In the same day, remember we will be hiking in the heart of the Andes; It could be cold in matter of minutes.
Prior to departure passengers must be in good conditions though trek is designed for non professional trekkers. 1 month before to departure participants must do at least 2 miles of hiking or jogging at least 2 days a week. Swimming is another good option; it will help your lungs capture more oxygen.
ALTITUDE SICKNESS (SOROCHE)
To help prevent altitude sickness the best measure is to acclimatize for at least two days with limited activity, eat light meals, drink lots of water and abstain from alcohol. Other methods include ingestion of aspirins which liquefy your blood and make it flow faster.
Altitude sickness begins affecting people who quickly ascend to altitudes over 2,500 m / 8,100 ft . Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, insomnia and loss of appetite. Risk of altitude sickness increases with higher altitudes, faster ascents more physical exertion and severe cases include fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema) or swelling of the brain (high-altitude brain edema) and can only be treated by descending immediately. Being physically fit does not necessarily mean you are free from risk of altitude sickness.