Raynaud's Sufferer Seeking advice for Travel at Altitude - Bolivia/Peru

[lrk98]

Hi all!

I have an outdoors hiking/adventure trip planned to Bolivia and Peru in March. I am a Raynaud's sufferer and currently take medication to manage my symptoms. In the UK climate, I now only have mild attacks (from the freezer & cold temperatures etc).

I am however worried that I won't cope so well in the high altitudes of Bolivia and Peru. For reference, I will be doing the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. I am also worried about acclimatisation and how Raynauds may affect me. Has anyone in this community done this trip or a similar trek at a high altitude? I would really appreciate any advice, support, or reassurance you can give me.

Thank you !!

[moo196]

just to say you should check that the trip is going ahead.Many Peru trips have been cancelled due to the political situation /strikes/violent protests and airport closures

[tiffany1]

Hi. Firstly what a great trip & hopefully you are able to go. If you feel you can manage , you have medication & you ‘re young & otherwise healthy

Go for it. Some of us have other health concerns that limit us more greatly. You don’t know what’s around the corner. Have fun😃

[r123456]

Hi, I spent two weeks on an adventure holiday in Boliva travelling across multiple high altitude areas, (la paz, potosi, salt flats) a couple of years ago, around the same age as you and with the same level of Raynaulds attacks mild-medium. I wasn't affected much by the altitude compared to others in the same group. Had about 12 hours acclimatisation before heading on upwards, and was fine but others felt more lightheaded and nauseous even with a day or two's acclimisation - it just affects everyone different regardless. Prep bearing in mind the weather (balance out lightweight layers with what will defo keep you comfortable and warm), and check if there's any outdoor evenings/nights, you will feel the cold much much more if still high. For me, I get colder and the Raynaulds feels worse when I'm tired, and your sleep gets affected more at high altitude because your heart rate drops more, so that was not so fun to discover. Rest where you can and just keep the group/hike leader aware of how things are going for you if you're not feeling good. I took my nifedipine with me and generally it was fine, ended up sleeping in a few extra layers and multiple pairs of socks (and my hat one night) - all good memories to laugh about now! Have a great time out there!