We actually did a ton of research into AMS before we left on the trip, that was definitely out #1 concern, but with preparation wasn't too much of an issue. We knew we had to be mindful of it though cos Dave knew he was more susceptible to this than most.
There are 3 main factors which contribute towards AMS;
1) speed of ascent
2) your age
3) your sex

We took the longest route up possible to give us more time to acclimatise, we were on the mountain for 9 days total, the difference of just 1 extra day on your way up was a big help. I know a lot of people have time constraints, but you are risking not making it, don't to the coke cola route!

The younger you are the more likely you are to get cerebral oedema (swelling of the brain), I figure anyone under 25 will have a huge issue with this, over 45, not so much. However, the older you are the more likely you are to get pulmonary oedema (blood on the lungs), you probably won't have to worry about this if you are under 45. But its not like you can change your age at this point.

If you are female you will be way less likely to suffer from cerebral edema, which is awesome since you are!

You should also consider taking Diamox as a preventative, we did. It has some strange side effects like your fingers and toes tingle at times and it makes soda taste flat, but worth it.

We also tried to acclimatize ourselves before the trip by running up smaller mountains at home, but I don't think that really helped.

hope this helps!

Chris

Thanks for the advice. My friend and I did the Machu Picchu trek and didn't have too much of a problem, but I'm worried about this one. We'll be looking into Diamox.

P.S. We think you boys are dreamy. ;-)