"In Peru there is a very lofty mountain range that is called Pariacaca…When I climbed the staircases, as they are called, the highest part of that range, almost in an instant I fell such mortal anguish that I thought I would have to throw myself off my mount onto the ground…This was soon followed by convulsive retching and vomiting that made me think I would [die]. I will say if had continued I would have certain of dying, but it lasted only we had gone a good way down their mountain and reached a more tolerable altitude."-Jose de Acosta, from the book Natural and Moral History of the Indies.
Near the end of the 16th century, Spanish Jesuit Jose Acosta suffered the disagreeable experience describe above while climbing the Pariacaca in the Peruvian Andes. At the time, such symptoms were commonly attributed either to toxic emanation from the minerals in the mountains or to the exhalation of misc hievous gods. From what we know now, Acosta had the trade mark symptoms of soroche-acute mountain sickness [AMS].
AMS is the body's response to the scant oxygen supply at high elevations. There, the barometric pressure decrease and the lungs absorb less oxygen. "Meanwhile, most people can travel to an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level without any problems". Symptoms of AMS frequently appear about four hours after a person reaches a high elevation and may last from one to four days.
During period, the limited oxygen in the blood will stimulate the production of more red blood cells, which in time will help the circulatory system supply more oxygen. However, if a person ascend to a high elevation too quickly or overexerts himself before acclimatizing, fluids may accumulate in the lungs or around the brain. If not cared for, this condition can be fatal.
HOW TO PREVENT ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS [AMS]
Travelers and climbers have tried many methods to prevent or treat AMS. Some steps include the following:
Avoid traveling to high altitudes if you have a respiratory ailment or anemia.
Medications such as diuretics, anti-inflammatory, or other drugs are often recommended for treating or preventing symptoms of AMS. Consult your physician.
The best remedy for AMS is to return to a lower altitude. If possible, keep warm during the descent and rest upon arrival.
Some of the most awe-inspiring scenery is found in the highlands and mountain ranges of the world. If you travel with care, you will be able to maintain good health as you enjoy the beauty of creation.
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