The mountains of Colorado are among the most beautiful parts of America and we hope you will enjoy every minute of your visit. But some of the very features that make the high country so attractive may cause problems unless you recognize and know how to prevent them.

Here’s why:
As you go higher, barometric pressure decreases, the air becomes thinner, and less oxygen is available. It’s also colder and drier, and the ultraviolet rays from the sun are stronger. Each of these changes may have an unpleasant effect on your body.

This can cause Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which can affect anyone.

Altitude
Many popular resorts are 8,000 to 9,500 feet above sea level; Breckenridge sits at 9600 feet above sea level, home to the highest lift in North America, Imperial Express at 12,480 feet.

You will probably notice that your breathing is faster or more profound, and you may feel short of breath, especially when you exercise. This is the body’s first and most effective response to altitude. Your heart is likely to beat faster also; this is a helpful normal reaction.

However, you may also develop a headache, nausea, or unusual tiredness; some people even have trouble sleeping. Depending on the altitude, 20% to 40% of all visitors from near sea level have one or several of these symptoms, which we call Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS. Many sufferers describe AMS as similar to a severe hangover.

In high-altitude environments, you may experience:

• DizzinessFatigue

• HeadacheConfusion

• NauseaShortness of Breath

• VomitingDifficulty Breathing

• Loss of Fun

Take it easy for the first day or two. Reduce alcohol, caffeine, and salty foods. Drink more water than usual. Salt causes your body to retain fluid (edema), which increases the severity of altitude illness.

Above all – listen to your body! Don’t push. If you feel worse and worse, get help!

Minor altitude symptoms occasionally become life-threatening.

Temperature
The sun has more power in the thin air, and a bad sunburn can spoil your stay. No matter how tanned you may be, use a protective cream. “Cold sores” are aggravated at high altitudes but might be prevented by a medication (Acyclovir) that your doctor can prescribe. Snow blindness –sunburn of the eyes – is a real danger, especially on new snow, and even on foggy or cloudy days. Wear sunglasses or goggles with ultraviolet protection.

Temperature falls about three degrees Fahrenheit for every 1,000 feet of altitude and can get cold very fast. Take extra clothes. Hypothermia (low body temperature) can occur even in the summer if you are wet, wind-chilled, hungry, tired, or poorly dressed. The warning signs are clumsiness, trouble thinking or talking clearly, irritability, and confusion.

Watch for these signs in each other. If in doubt, stop, warm up, eat, and drink – and if necessary, send for help.

Most people dress appropriately in winter, but be sure boots and gloves are not wet or too tight. If you lose sensation in your face, fingers, or toes, stop, look for frostbite (numb, cold, white areas), and take time to warm up.

Water
The crisp mountain air is exhilarating, but it’s also very dry. You lose much more water than you realize in exhaled air and from sweating. Maintaining body water is essential, so drink two or three times more than usual. Fill your canteen in the hotel. Don’t drink from streams. Juices and water are better than tea, coffee, or alcohol. Remember that at high altitudes, one alcoholic drink does the work of two.

Injuries
Accidents can happen at any time to anyone, but they are more common when you are cold, tired, or hungry. Remember that lack of oxygen can impair your judgement, leading you to do foolish things. Whether hiking, skiing, playing golf, or tennis, give your body plenty of food and water to function efficiently. Don’t keep going when you’re very tired; quit while you’re ahead.

Illness
Of course, you are as likely to get a cold, flu, or upset stomach in the mountains as you are at home. But altitude illness feels very much like flu, or a hangover, and it can be a lot more serious. If you have any doubts, get medical help. Don’t let ignorance or carelessness spoil your stay.

There is great personal joy, beauty, and spiritual peace in the mountains. 

Treat yourself with respect and enjoy your stay.

High Altitude Tips and Tricks

• Drink plenty of water. Dehydration is more likely to occur at higher elevations.

• Alcohol may worsen the likelihood of dehydration.

• Some medications, like Diamox, can help with AMS, but they must be started before reaching high altitude.

• Check with your doctor ahead of time.

Rent an oxygen concentrator from Bluebird Oxygen, which can be ready upon arrival. It serves 2 guests and helps during sleep.

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Contact Us: 970-409-6089
bluebirdoxygen.com