The Denver Traveler

Tuesday’s Traveler’s Tip: Altitude Sickness

by Shawn Marie on July 29th, 2008

Here at The Denver Traveler we have hinted at this a few times, but it is time to get serious about it.

Altitude Sickness

It is no joke. As Denver is situated at 5,280 feet above sea level- many who visit, or have just relocated here, certainly feel the affects of this High Altitude and often get sick. The cause of Altitude Sickness is the thinner air at higher altitudes does not give you the amount of oxygen you need. When this happens it can affect your lungs and brains.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness include:

Headaches
Lack of Appetite
Feeling Weak and Lazy
Sick to your Stomach
Vomiting
Not being able to sleep
Feeling Dizzy

When visiting Denver- if you suddenly feel hung over but haven’t had a drop of liquor, take care and slow down. Drink plenty of water- do not indulge in libations, eat smaller meals, take an over the counter headache medicine and get plenty of rest. If the symptoms subside, and this can take several hours to a few days, gently go places that have higher altitude. If you feel any symptoms come on again, get to a lower altitude and take care of yourself. If they are persistent- go see a Doctor.

A good plan when coming to Denver is to drive or take a train- flying sometimes exacerbates altitude sickness- and to take it easy the first few days you are here. Ease into higher altitudes slowly and with care.

[photo-SXC]

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