Information about High Altitudes at our Colorado Mountain Resort

Exercise and Altitude Reprint from the Mayo Clinic

With that crisp clear air and those breathtaking vistas, mountain country destinations are favorites for tourists and athletes. But anyone who plans to vacation or do sports at higher altitudes should undestand that certain physiological dangers could accompany all that splendor.

Only a miniscule percentage of human beings live and work at alititudes above 10,000 feet, where the oxygen in the air can be two-thirds what it is at sea level. Those of us who visit high altitudes arrive with bodies used to substantially more available oxygen. That's when altitude sickness can strike.

Happily, three quarters of visitors to altitudes 8,500 feet and higher end up not suffering any ill effects fromt their Rocky Mountain highs. But many do.

Headache is the most common symptom. There can be loss of appetite, shortness of breath with exertion, fatigue, insomnia, and nausea. The effects of altitude sickness often mimic influenza, cold, even a hangover. Usually the symptoms pass in a day or two.

The more severe forms of altitude sickness, which usually develop at the very high altitudes experienced by mountain climbers, can prove fatal. High altitude cerebral edema (HACE) manifests itself as a terrible headache, a drunken stagger, and hallucinations. High altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) produces excessive cioughing, shortness of breath, and weakness.

Anyone heading up to a higher altitude for something more strenuous than the normal tourist amble- a spot of cross-country skiing or mountain biking, for example, would be wise to exercise some caution, as well.

Giving yourself a day to acclimate to higher altitudes will reduce your risk of problems. This is especially true if you're at altitudes above 13,000 to 14,000 feet. People who are well conditioned are likely to be better suited to high-altitude activities; they simply have more reserves of stamina and strength. But when you do hit the hiking or cross-country trail, don't expect that you'll be able to comfortably do the same miles you did close to sea level. A runner who's accustomed to 10 miles at home could find the results at altitude quite exhausting. Begin with smaller amounts of activity than you're used to, and work your way up.

Also, remember that you're breathing more rapidly, since your body's trying to extract more oxygen from thinner air. Your rapid breathing and the drier air at high altitudes combine to make dehydration more likely. The solution is simple: drink plenty of fluids.

In the event you push the altitude envelope and develop mild symptoms, you probably will get better with a little rest. If, however, you're still feeling ill, go to a physician. If that isn't an option, return to an altitude 2,000-3,000 feet lower as soon as possible, resting and taking fluids.

If you have serious symptoms - persistent cough, noisy breathing, loss of balance, confusion,shortness of breath at rest, vomiting, or other problems related to HACE or HAPE - see a physician immediately.

There's nothing wrong with enjoying a workout in the mountains, just so long as you understand the price high altitude can exact from unsuspecting athletes and tourists.

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