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The Effects of High Altitude on Your Body
The Effects of High Altitude on Your Body
Photo from: hprc-online.org
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The Aspen nightlife is like nothing you will experience anywhere else and there is a lot more to do than hit the ski slopes. The cuddly warmth of the ski resorts and friendliness of all of the skiers, from all of the different lodges is quite special, and remarkable. You will have a good time in Aspen, no matter what you choose to do, but there is one thing that you should be very aware of before you start your party – the altitude.
Aspen sits at 7908 feet above sea level and it has low humidity. Unless you already live in a high-altitude climate, your lungs will need to adjust to the high altitude and dry air when you go to Aspen or any other place with a high altitude.
When you get there, if you do too much too soon and your body is not used to the climate, you may start to feel dizzy or lightheaded and you may even have difficulty breathing. Altitude Sickness is a serious problem, and if your symptoms become extreme, please seek medical attention.
If you will be drinking alcohol, the altitude will have a large impact on the way your body handle it. Many people who are not used to such a high altitude get drunk on much less alcohol, in a very short period of time. It is best to avoid drinking alcohol completely until you have adjusted to the altitude.
It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of Altitude sickness and Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Altitude sickness can be recognized by hyperventilation, shortness of breath during exertion, increased urination, changed breathing patterns at night, strange dreams, and frequently waking from sleep during the night. Acute Mountain Sickness is recognized by loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue or weakness, dizziness, light-headedness, difficulty sleeping, confusion, and a staggering gait.
The best way to find out if you have either of these is to forgo alcohol for at least 48 hours after your arrival in the higher altitude because a lot of the symptoms mimic being drunk. You should also seek medical attention if you show signs of Acute Mountain Sickness. AMS can be deadly if it is not treated in a timely manner.
It is best to avoid alcohol altogether because the effects are magnified at a high altitude. Also, avoid strenuous activity for the first couple of days after arriving at the higher altitude. Drink extra fluid and visit a doctor if you have symptoms of AMS immediately for treatment.
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