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People who travel to the mountains, whether it is the Rockies, the Sierra Nevada’s, or the Alps in Europe, may be aware of the effect that altitude can sometimes have. Those planning their first trip to the mountains for a vacation of hiking, camping, and fishing may be caught off guard if and when altitude sickness hits. Even if you are only planning to relax in a mountain cabin without all the physical activity, if that cabin is 8,000 feet above sea level or higher, you can still be a victim.
Altitude sickness also goes by another ominous sounding name – acute mountain sickness. It occurs at high altitudes when you can’t get enough oxygen from the thin air, especially if you go to altitude quickly. Twenty percent of people who visit the mountains get mild forms of it, and there is no way to predict who will succumb. Symptoms to look for are headaches, feeling sick to the stomach and weak, having no energy, and dizziness.
Of course, the best way to treat altitude sickness is to go to a lower altitude, but if your entire vacation is planned at 8,000 feet, there are other options. Often, the longer you stay at altitude your body will adjust. Until you do adjust, you should not exert yourself too much, drink a lot of water, and don’t drink Alcoholic Beverages. It could take 4 to 12 hours for the symptoms to subside. Until this happens, you should not go to a higher altitude.
There are some medications that can help like over-the-counter drugs to treat the headache. Doctors can prescribe a drug called acetazolamide that works by helping your body adjust to the altitude faster.
If you know you are prone to altitude sickness or want to take precautions when you don’t know. Try spending a night at medium altitude before proceeding to your higher destination. If traveling to Colorado, stay in Denver before heading up into the mountains. If you are flying into a city that is at high altitude, avoid alcohol, large meals, and lots of activity right after you arrive. Foods high in carbohydrates should be included in your meals.
You may be able to get your doctor to prescribe acetazolamide before your trip. If you start taking it one day before you plan to go up to 8,000 feet or higher, your body will adjust more quickly to the altitude. Continue to take it two days after you come down from the mountains.
What else can I help you with?
What precautions should one take to prevent altitude sickness on a plane?
To prevent altitude sickness on a plane, it is important to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, move around periodically, and consider using supplemental oxygen if necessary.
What precautions should I take to prevent altitude sickness while flying on a plane?
To prevent altitude sickness while flying on a plane, you should stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, move around the cabin periodically, and consider using supplemental oxygen if necessary. It's also important to consult with a healthcare provider before flying if you have a history of altitude sickness.
What precautions should one take to prevent altitude sickness while flying on an airplane?
To prevent altitude sickness while flying on an airplane, it is important to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, move around periodically, and consider using supplemental oxygen if necessary. It is also recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before flying if you have a history of altitude sickness.
What causes altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness is caused by changes in the distribution of oxygen and pressure. The symptoms of altitude sickness resemble those of a cold.
What flow rate of oxygen should be administered to treat altitude sickness?
2-4 LPM by nasal canula.
What is the danger of altitude sickness at 7900 Ft.?
elevation and altitude sickness? Aspen? A concern?
What is altitude sickness in mount Everest?
You can learn about Altitude Sickness on Mount Everest at the link provided.
Can you fly if you have altitude sickness?
No, it is not recommended to fly if you have altitude sickness as it can worsen your symptoms and lead to complications.
Why do we get altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness occurs when people increase altitude too quickly. What is the cause of altitude sickness? Acute mountain sickness is caused by reduced air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. The faster you climb to a high altitude, the more likely you will get acute mountain sickness. You are at higher risk for acute mountain sickness if: You live at or near sea level and travel to a high altitude. Oct 16, 2017
Do you get altitude sickness at the South Pole?
Yes, some people are extremely affected by altitude sickness and cannot remain at their duty stations. Altitude sickness, however, does not strike all workers or scientists.
How is altitude treated?
Altitude sickness can be treated with oxygen therapy
What major syndromes are catagorized as altitude sickness?
There are three major clinical syndromes that fall under the heading of altitude sickness: acute mountain sickness (AMS), high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE).
