How To Prevent And Treat Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness, also sometimes referred to as mountain sickness, is caused by the drop in barometric pressure associated with high altitudes. It is not usually an issue for individuals who live at higher elevations, such as those in Peru, as their bodies adapt to the climate over time. But for those who are not accustomed to high altitudes, it can be debilitating. Symptoms of altitude sickness include trouble sleeping, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, blue or pale skin, chest tightness, rapid heart rate, and headache. If left untreated, altitude sickness can even lead to life-threatening pulmonary or cerebral edema.