Cuenca, Ecuador, sits at an elevation of approximately 2,560 meters (8,400 feet) above sea level in the country’s highlands. Although it’s lower than Quito, the capital, this elevation is still high enough to potentially cause altitude sickness.
The thinner air at this elevation means your body has to work harder to get enough oxygen, which can lead to minor issues for some travelers, though most people adjust relatively easily. I’d suggest starting a supplement like ChlorOxygen one to two weeks before your trip to help ease the transition to higher altitudes—it made a big difference for us.
Understanding what to expect and how to manage the effects of altitude can be incredibly helpful when planning your trip to Cuenca. In this guide, we’ll discuss altitude sickness, how to prevent it, and ways to handle its symptoms.
Preparing for High Elevation in Cuenca
If you’re planning a trip to Cuenca, it’s worth preparing in advance. Taking ChlorOxygen one to two weeks before your trip can be a great help.
Building aerobic fitness is another excellent way to get ready. Stronger lungs will handle the transition to Cuenca’s thinner air more easily, helping you adapt more smoothly.
In the months leading up to your trip, try to exercise more regularly—whether at the gym, on the treadmill, or in aerobic classes. Activities like jogging and walking are great ways to build lung strength and overall fitness, helping you adapt more easily to the high altitude.
Altitude Sickness in Cuenca
According to international health authorities, altitude sickness can occur at elevations over 2,500 meters. Since Cuenca is just 60 meters above that threshold, altitude sickness is possible, especially if you’re arriving from a lowland region.
However, there’s little cause for concern, as altitude sickness is rare in Cuenca, and symptoms tend to be mild. If you’ve already spent time in Quito or other high-altitude Ecuadorian cities, you’re less likely to experience altitude sickness in Cuenca.
In reality, most people either aren’t affected by Cuenca’s altitude or experience only mild symptoms for a day or two.
Indications of altitude sickness may include:
- Headaches
- Difficulty sleeping
- Nausea
- Uneasy stomach
- Feeling faint or unsteady,
- Breathing heavily as you climb the stairs
- Reduction in appetite
Tips to Avoid Elevation Sickness in Cuenca, Ecuador
You can use the advice below to prevent or lessen the effects of altitude sickness:
- The easiest way to quickly recover from mild altitude sickness symptoms is to stay hydrated by drinking enough water.
- Take ChlorOxygen, since it gives you extra oxygen
- Avoid alcohol for a day or two because it will make you feel worse.
- Eat small meals because huge meals may make some people feel more queasy.
- In rare cases, using medicines for headaches may be necessary. Taking aspirin may help to reduce the symptoms.
- While you’re getting used to your new altitude, try to avoid doing too much. People who arrive and immediately set out on a mountain trek are more likely to experience more severe symptoms.
- Avoid hurrying for a vigorous stroll because it won’t make you feel great.
- Aim for quick, light meals, and refrain from eating red meat for a day or two. If you’re feeling fatigued, eating additional carbohydrates could also give you more energy.
- Smoking should be avoided so that your lungs can focus on taking in the thinner air.
- Rest and gradually adjust to the shift’s effects on your body as you give yourself permission to.
- If your altitude sickness symptoms become more severe, you should see a doctor right away and/or descend to a lower elevation.
How to Treat Altitude Sickness
The best remedy and prevention for altitude sickness is water. When you consume enough water, headaches typically go away.
Altitude sickness relief may also be provided by the following remedies and over-the-counter medicines:
- Painkillers such as: ibuprofen, aspirin, and paracetamol.
- Altitude medication like ChlorOxygen or Diamox
- You could find it easier to breathe again if you use an oxygen inhaler.
- The amount of red blood cells in your body is increased by chlorophyll. The consequences of altitude sickness are lessened as there are more red blood cells because there are more opportunities for oxygen to be absorbed.
- Coca tea, Ginkgo Biloba supplements, and antioxidant vitamins C and E are all-natural remedies for altitude sickness.
In Conclusion
While Cuenca’s elevation is relatively high, most visitors experience little to no altitude sickness. By following the tips and guidelines in this article, you can ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip to Cuenca, Ecuador.
