How To Prevent Altitude Sickness in Colorado

Want to know how to avoid altitude sickness in Colorado? Altitude sickness is a common affliction for Colorado visitors and even residents. It’s caused by the body’s inability to adjust to higher altitudes and results in flu-like symptoms. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, so it’s best treated with preventative measures. Below, we’ve listed a few easy steps to avoid or greatly diminish altitude sickness in Colorado. It’s important to take measures to avoid this ailment, as it’s easier to enjoy all the wonderful adventures our area has to offer when you’re not battling altitude sickness!   Speaking of great things to do in the area, be sure to check out our Winter Activities and Summer Activities pages. Here, you’ll find local insight on the best ways to explore Winter Park, Colorado, any time of year! 

Everything You Need to Know About Altitude Sickness in Colorado 

What is Altitude Sickness? 

Altitude sickness can occur when you travel to an elevation much higher than you’re used to. A lot of people ask, can you get altitude sickness at 5,000 feet? Typically, no. It begins when you reach an elevation of about 7,500-8,000 feet or above. The air pressure lessens the farther you get from sea level. Because the pressure drops, the air begins to thin, making it difficult to intake the same level of oxygen. 

What Are the Symptoms? 

Symptoms usually begin within a few hours of arriving at a new elevation. Some people compare the symptoms to those of the flu. Headaches, fatigue, and nausea are all common when experiencing altitude sickness in Denver. Trouble sleeping is often associated with altitude sickness as well if you’re sleeping at a high elevation.  Most people experience altitude sickness with outdoor activities like skiing or hiking. However, when you’re staying in a mountain town like Winter Park that has an elevation of more than 8,000 feet, you may experience symptoms walking around the area.  

How Do I Prevent Altitude Sickness? 

There are several preventative measures you can take if you’re nervous about altitude sickness in Colorado. If you’re flying into the Denver airport, it could be helpful to spend a night in the city. Taking a day to acclimate to Denver’s elevation, which is still well above sea level, could help your body cope at higher altitudes.  If you’re heading straight to Winter Park or live near Denver, there are other steps you can take. Your body usually adjusts to a new altitude within 24-36 hours, so avoid any strenuous activity the first day or two. Even very active people are susceptible to altitude sickness, especially during physical activity.  Drinking more water than usual is also very important and will help reduce or prevent symptoms. Other things to avoid include salty foods, caffeine, and alcohol. Drinking alcohol at high altitudes often enhances the effects of altitude sickness. If you’re anxious about altitude sickness or you’ve experienced it before, you can get a prescription for Diamox. Taking this medicine a day or two before traveling can prevent sickness. 

Adjust to the Mountain Life With the Help of Real Estate of Winter Park 

Don’t let altitude sickness in Colorado prevent you from experiencing all the magic of Winter Park! With beautiful scenery year-round, an abundance of outdoor activities, and a charming downtown area, Winter Park is the perfect mountain town.  Now that you know all about avoiding altitude sickness, start searching for your dream home in Colorado with the help of Real Estate of Winter Park! We offer an inventory of for-sale homes, condos, townhouses, and vacant land. Browse a full selection of our current properties to get started! Start Your Search