What is High Altitude?
High altitude could be anything above 5,280 feet (1,609 kilometers) in elevation. Days are comfortable with lots of sun and the evenings and early mornings can be cool.
What are the Effects of High Altitude?
At high altitudes, everyone is affected to some degree. The effects vary among individuals and cover a variety of symptoms. The two main differences between the high altitude environment and sea level are: decreased oxygen density and decreased humidity, or moisture content, in the surrounding air. At elevation of 8,000-10,000 feet the oxygen is approximately 40-45 % less dense (creating the feeling of "less oxygen"), and the humidity is 50-80 % lower than at sea level. A sudden change in environment from sea level to high altitude can produce possible symptoms of nausea, insomnia, diarrhea, restlessness, shortness of breath and air hunger. Palpitations or fast heart beat, headache, nasal congestion, coughing, easy fatigue and intolerance to exertion may also be experienced.
What Can I do to Adapt to the High Altitude?
The initial complaints should disappear as your body adjusts to the lower oxygen content and dryness. This may take any where from a few days to a few weeks. Upon arrival to high altitude, do not overdo. Eat lightly. Alcohol aggravates the high altitude syndrome. Most of all keep physical exertion to a minimum the first day. Over-exertion before your body can adapt to the lower oxygen and dryness can result in more severe and persistent symptoms. If you have a history of heart, circulatory or lung disease, you should check with your doctor before coming to high altitude. Respiratory infections or pneumonia should be completely resolved before coming to high altitude, since they can be dramatically worsened by the extra strain placed on your body. Pregnant women should seek the advice of their physicians before exerting themselves at high altitude.
Some Final Suggestions
Rest appropriately and do not overdo the first two days. Take a nap when you are sleepy and get a good night's sleep after an exertive day. Eat lightly and drink plenty of liquids, realize alcohol can dehydrate. If you experience any symptoms that were mentioned, you may suffer from an oxygen deficit. The symptoms are a caution light to decrease your activity and protect yourself. A day of rest is suggested. If your symptoms are not improved or symptoms develop that worry you, do not hesitate to contact a local physician in the area.
