Altitude sickness...
Not sure if this is the correct category but... Arrived 5 days ago. Alpine, AZ. 8100 ft. Didn't take long to crash and burn. Drowsiness, dizzyness and worst of all a heavy dark blanket of depressi...
Forum Discussion
Thom02099 wrote:
Altitude sickness is very real, and can be very dangerous. Nausea, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, and headaches are other symptoms to be aware of. Frequent recommendation is to get to a lower elevation until one acclimates to the change in altitude. And hydrate...hydrate...hydrate.
Even those of us who have lived at a higher elevation can experience altitude sickness. I have had issues going up to the top of Mt Evans (14000 ft), as well as several points along Trail Ridge Road (at 12000 ft) at various times. Doesn't happen every time. I've also gone up Pikes Peak on the cog railway and didn't have any problems at the top.
Most folks can acclimate to a change in altitude. It may need to be done gradually. Not everyone is going to respond the same way. Much depends also on your age, general health, and general physical condition.
Worst thing to do? Ignore the symptoms.
Hydrate - two advil - drop to a couple thousand feet lower for a day and from personal experience (Son's sking in Utah) it should pass.
Don't think he had the advil - but we sure used it a lot . :)
IMHO water is the Key, Thom is spot on!
BOL,
