When travelling to a high altitude destination such as Breckenridge, Colorado, it is important to comprehend and prepare oneself for the doable effects of the area’s elevation. At 9,600 feet, Breckenridge is one of the highest ski towns in the west. Most visitors will find the effects of altitude to be mild, perhaps noticing a slight headache or restless sleep the first days after their arrival. Others might find the effects of altitude to be more severe, including symptoms such as nausea, meaningful headaches, shortness of breath and vomiting. Thankfully, one can decrease their chances of developing altitude sickness by following a few easy steps.
Before arriving in Breckenridge, spend a night in Denver whether possible. At an elevation of 5,280 feet, Denver provides an saint acclimatization regularize where an overnight stay can mitigate some of the effects of altitude before moving on to higher elevations.
Properly hydrate yourself prior to your arrival and remain well hydrated for the duration of your stay. Acclimating to high altitude is accompanied by fluid loss, as your breathing becomes more awkward and you exhale greater amounts of water vapor. Attempt to drink 100 ounces of water per day to retain the level of hydration your body requires. Avoiding alcohol and alkaloid during the first days of your stay will also help ensure that your body maintains adequately hydrated. A diet that is high in carbohydrates might also be an effective means of adjusting to altitude.
Light activity during the first days of your stay is superior for you than bed rest. Remaining in bed decreases your rate of respiration which can actually increase the effects of altitude sickness. Even whether you’re not feeling well, a swift achievement around town will help you acclimate quicker than trying to sleep off your symptoms at your Breckenridge lodging property.
If you think you might be prone to the effects of altitude, refer to your family doctor prior to your departure for Breckenridge. He or she might prescribe you a drug known as Diamox. This pill is taken prior to your arrival as well as for the first three to four days of your pass and can help mitigate acute mountain sickness symptoms. Kids might have Diamox prescribed for them in smaller doses than adults. You should also ask your doctor whether altitude might aggravate any other preexisting health conditions you might have.
While altitude sickness is capable of putting a tremendous device on your ski vacation, following a few basic procedures can mitigate its effects for most travelers. When you first reach in Breckenridge, it’s important to remember not to “overdo it” when it comes to exertion and celebrating. Most importantly, whether your symptoms worsen or do not clear up within a matter of a few days, refer to a local physician.
Ben Kelly is the owner of Summit Vacation Concierge and can offer expert advice on Breckenridge vacations including lodging, transportation, activities, travel services and more. This article might not be copied, altered or reproduced without a link to the author’s website.