What is acclimatization and how does it manifest itself
Acclimatization is the process of adaptation to new natural conditions from the familiar climate and weather in which a person constantly lives. Scientists have proven that even moving in the range of six degrees in latitude and longitude causes people to have all the signs of acclimatization. Naturally, this is especially noticeable when a person travels by plane – a very quick change of place of residence takes place, and therefore acclimatization occurs very effectively.
The criteria for the effectiveness of acclimatization is a change not only in the thermoregulation system (increased body temperature, increased sweating intensity), but also a decrease in heart rate. Signs of acclimatization depend on individual characteristics. But in general, these are, as a rule, headaches, dizziness, a manifestation of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract – vomiting, belching, pain in the upper gastrointestinal tract, impaired stools, often diarrhea, there is even such a thing as “traveler’s diarrhea”. There is also a disorder of the nervous system, general weakness, runny nose, sore throat, increased blood pressure, palpitations. As a rule, people with chronic diseases experience an exacerbation of these diseases.
Acclimatization is different in that these signs, as a rule, disappear in the next day or two.
Acclimatization stages and why 2 weeks of vacation is not enough
Acclimatization has several stages. The first or initial stage – it proceeds without any specific symptoms. And it is during this period that the body begins to prepare for the new climatic conditions in which a person falls. As a rule, it lasts one or two days.
The second stage is called “high reactivity” – this is the time when the first signs of acclimatization begin to appear, and the person’s condition worsens significantly.
Then comes the leveling stage, when a person begins to feel good, the general condition returns to normal.
And the fourth stage – or the stage of complete acclimatization – occurs approximately on the 10-14th day of stay in other climatic conditions.
There is also such a classification as acute and normal stages of acclimatization. The acute stage is characterized by the fact that it lasts no more than seven days, the usual one is from 10 to 14 days.
Thus, in order for the body to fully get used to the new climatic conditions, and the person to be able to fully relax, it is necessary to spend at least 20 days in a new place.
Therefore, a one- or two-week vacation in hot countries, familiar to our tourists, takes place under the “banner” of acclimatization. You can rest fully, without feeling bad, only after two weeks of stay in the country.
Based on the foregoing, the most optimal period for vacation and stay in an unfamiliar country is at least 18 to 20 days. This allows you to successfully get used to new climatic conditions and, of course, get the most out of your vacation – from visiting new places, excursions. Therefore, two weeks of vacation is not enough.
