Health Tips

Altitude Sickness

As you ascend to higher altitudes, atmospheric pressure decreases, the air is thinner and less oxygen is available. It is also colder, drier, and the ultraviolet rays from the sun are stronger. Each of these changes may have unpleasant effects on your body.

Above 8,000 feet, altitude illness affects 20% to 30% of visitors from lower altitudes.  The extent to which you are affected depends on how quickly you ascend, what elevation you attain, how hard you exercise, what you eat and drink and what health problems you may have (smoking, emphysema, asthma, anemia, diabetes, high blood pressure).

When planning a trip to an area above 8,000 feet, consult with your doctor if you have any questions. After arriving at high altitude, you will probably notice that your breathing is faster and/or deeper, and you may feel short of breath, especially when exercising. This is the body’s first and most effective response to higher elevations. In addition, your heart is likely to beat faster, and you may develop nausea, unusual tiredness, headache, or have difficulty sleeping.

Visitors with one or more of these symptoms may have Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). This form of altitude illness usually resolves in a day or two. If the symptoms become worse, or if you are concerned, be sure to consult a doctor.  A wet cough, increasing shortness of breath or the feeling of fluid collecting in your lungs may signal a more serious condition called High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). HAPE  requires immediate medical attention.

Before you leave home, you can do a few things to decrease the effects of high altitude. Spending two nights at modest altitude, 5,000 to 6,000 feet, may decrease symptoms when you ascend.  Ideally, spending some time in Denver (5,280 feet) is a good idea before making your way to Keystone, Colorado.  Eating foods which are high in carbohydrates, drinking more water than usual and using less salt may also help.

Once you arrive, take it easy for the first day or two. Adequate hydration is important in the prevention of altitude illness. Drink two or three times more water or fluid than usual. Limit alcohol consumption for two or three days and minimize caffeine intake. Limit salty foods and increase carbohydrate consumption. Above all, listen to your body. Do not push the limits of your physical capabilities. If you feel worse, get medical attention!

Sunburn

At high altitude the ultraviolet rays from the sun are more intense and, therefore, more damaging. Even when it is cloudy, the risk of sunburn is extreme. Before going out for the day, protect yourself and your family from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Apply a sunscreen, SPF 15-30 to your skin before beginning outdoor activities and every two hours while outside.

To prevent sun injury to the eyes, wear sunglasses or goggles with ultraviolet (UV) protection.

 

High Altitude Health Tips

Avoid Altitude Illness
* Increase Fluid Intake
* Decrease Salt Intake
* Moderate Your Physical Activity
* Eat High Carbohydrate, Low Fat Meals
* Reduce Alcohol and Caffeine Intake
* Feeling Worse? Seek Help

Prevent Sunburn
* Use Sunscreen (SPF 15-30)
* Always Wear Sun Glasses or Goggles