Can children get altitude sickness?

Yes. Children are just as susceptible as adults, and they may struggle to articulate symptoms like a 'throbbing' headache. Look for signs like irritability or refusal to eat.

Should we drink coca tea?

Locals swear by it, but its efficacy is mild. It serves as a good hydration source, but do not rely on it as a medical treatment for moderate or severe symptoms.

When is it an emergency?

If anyone shows signs of confusion, loss of balance, or shortness of breath while resting, seek immediate medical attention and descend to a significantly lower altitude at once.

Preventing and Managing Altitude Sickness During Family Travel

To prevent altitude sickness, schedule a mandatory 48-hour acclimatization period at a lower elevation before ascending to 8,000 feet or higher. Keep children hydrated with double their normal water intake and avoid heavy, high-protein meals during the first three days of your trip.

Plan a phased ascent. Do not fly directly into high-altitude cities like Cusco or La Paz if possible. If you must, spend your first 2 nights in a town at least 2,000 feet lower than your final destination to allow your body to adjust to oxygen levels.
Enforce strict hydration. Dehydration worsens symptoms significantly. Aim for 2.5 to 3 liters of water per day for adults and 1.5 to 2 liters for children. Add electrolyte powders to one bottle daily to replace lost minerals.
Monitor for symptoms early. Watch children for headaches, loss of appetite, or lethargy. If a child stops playing or seems 'off,' stop your ascent immediately and descend 1,000 feet. Do not try to push through symptoms.
Limit physical exertion. For the first 72 hours, avoid hiking, running, or strenuous sightseeing. Schedule only one light activity per day, such as a museum visit or a slow walking tour, to keep heart rates steady.

Can children get altitude sickness?: Yes. Children are just as susceptible as adults, and they may struggle to articulate symptoms like a 'throbbing' headache. Look for signs like irritability or refusal to eat.
Should we drink coca tea?: Locals swear by it, but its efficacy is mild. It serves as a good hydration source, but do not rely on it as a medical treatment for moderate or severe symptoms.
When is it an emergency?: If anyone shows signs of confusion, loss of balance, or shortness of breath while resting, seek immediate medical attention and descend to a significantly lower altitude at once.