The High Road

I read with interest the “Elevating Experience” letter (Nov. 5). I have just returned from an eight-day trip to Peru, including Cuzco at 11,000-plus elevation.

My mother’s dream was to go to Machu Picchu, and because she is 86 I knew this could be a problem due to the altitude. I also always seem to develop altitude headaches.

We had heard about acetazolamide (Diamox), a drug that is used for, among other things, the prevention of mountain sickness, and we both got prescriptions for it. Seven of the nine travelers in our tour group took the drug. The two who didn’t experienced headaches, nausea and some difficulty breathing at night.

Certainly travelers should always check with their physicians before taking any medication. In this case, taking Diamox could allow some travelers access to the wonders of Peru and other high-altitude locations. My mother was able to hike the ruins with the rest of us and felt just fine.

JUDY BETHE

San Clemente