Taos Trails: Altitude Air Stealing Enzyme Savings?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe thin air bites at your lungs, a subtle reminder that you’re not in Kansas anymore. Or, more accurately, not at sea level. You’re in Taos, New Mexico, a high-altitude haven nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and that breathtaking view comes with a potential price: altitude sickness. For those planning a hike up the iconic Williams Lake Trail, or any of the stunning trails around Taos Ski Valley, understanding and preparing for altitude sickness is paramount. It’s not just about physical fitness; it’s about understanding how your body reacts to less oxygen.
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when you ascend to a high altitude too quickly. The lower air pressure at higher elevations means less oxygen is available, and your body struggles to adapt. Taos sits at a base elevation of around 7,000 feet, and the Williams Lake Trail climbs to over 11,000 feet. That’s a significant change, especially for visitors arriving from lower elevations.
So, how do you conquer this high-altitude hurdle and enjoy the beauty of Taos without feeling like you’re running a marathon underwater? Let’s dive into the science, the remedies, and the strategies specific to this unique New Mexico landscape.
First, let’s talk about Diamox (acetazolamide). This prescription medication is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. It essentially forces your kidneys to excrete bicarbonate, which acidifies your blood. This acidity stimulates breathing, allowing you to take in more oxygen. It also helps your body acclimatize faster.
However, Diamox isn’t a magic bullet. It has potential side effects, including tingling in the fingers and toes, frequent urination, and altered taste. Some people also experience nausea or loss of appetite. It’s crucial to consult with your doctor before taking Diamox, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications. A common mistake is starting Diamox the day of your hike. It’s most effective when started one to two days before ascending to altitude.
Beyond Diamox, other medications can help manage altitude sickness symptoms. Ibuprofen can alleviate headaches, and anti-nausea medications like Zofran can combat nausea and vomiting. However, these only treat the symptoms and don’t address the underlying cause of altitude sickness.
Now, let’s explore holistic remedies. Hydration is key. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your hike and throughout your time in Taos. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you. Electrolyte drinks can also be beneficial, helping to replace fluids and minerals lost through increased respiration.
Diet also plays a role. Focus on complex carbohydrates, which are easier to digest at altitude. Avoid heavy, fatty foods. Some people find that ginger helps with nausea. You can try ginger tea, ginger candies, or ginger supplements.
Acclimatization is the most effective way to prevent altitude sickness. If you’re traveling from a low-altitude area, spend a few days in Taos before attempting any strenuous hikes. Take it easy on your first day. Avoid overexertion. A common pitfall is trying to do too much too soon. Your body needs time to adjust to the lower oxygen levels.
Consider spending a night in Santa Fe (around 7,200 feet) before heading to Taos. This can provide a gentle introduction to higher altitudes. When hiking, ascend gradually. Take frequent breaks. Listen to your body. If you start to experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, dizziness, or shortness of breath, descend immediately. Don’t try to “push through” it.
Oxygen optimization strategies can also be helpful. While carrying supplemental oxygen isn’t always practical for hiking, consider using it at night, especially if you’re experiencing difficulty sleeping. Some hotels in Taos offer oxygen concentrators for rent.
Breathing exercises can also improve oxygen intake. Practice deep, diaphragmatic breathing. This involves breathing deeply into your belly, rather than just your chest. This can help increase the amount of oxygen you take in with each breath.
Specific to the Taos environment, be aware of the dry air. The arid climate can exacerbate dehydration, making altitude sickness worse. Use a humidifier in your hotel room, and apply lip balm and moisturizer frequently.
Another often overlooked factor is iron levels. Low iron can worsen the effects of altitude sickness. If you’re prone to anemia, consider taking an iron supplement before your trip. Consult with your doctor to determine the appropriate dosage.
For those planning to hike the Williams Lake Trail, remember that the trailhead is already at a high elevation. Even if you’ve acclimatized to Taos, the additional ascent can still trigger altitude sickness. Pace yourself. Stay hydrated. And be prepared to turn back if you start to feel unwell.
A real-world example: A group of hikers from Dallas, Texas, arrived in Taos and immediately attempted to hike the Williams Lake Trail. Several members of the group experienced severe altitude sickness, requiring them to turn back and seek medical attention. They had failed to acclimatize properly and had underestimated the effects of the altitude.
Contrast this with another group from Chicago who spent two days in Taos, taking short walks and drinking plenty of water before attempting the hike. They ascended gradually, took frequent breaks, and monitored their symptoms closely. Only one member of the group experienced mild altitude sickness, which resolved with rest and hydration.
The key takeaway is that altitude sickness is preventable. By understanding the science behind it, taking appropriate precautions, and listening to your body, you can enjoy the stunning beauty of Taos without compromising your health. Don’t let the altitude be a barrier to your adventure. Be prepared, be smart, and breathe easy.