Altitude Sickness in Breckenridge, Colorado and How to Avoid It

When traveling to high altitude destinations such as Breckenridge, Colorado, it's imperative to prepare oneself for the possible effects of the area's extreme elevation. At 9,600 feet, Breckenridge is one of the highest ski towns in the western United States.

Most visitors will find the effects of altitude to be relatively mild, possibly noticing a small headache or not being able to sleep well during the first days after their arrival. Others may find the effects of Breckenridge's altitude to be much more severe, including symptoms such as nausea, significant headaches, shortness of breath and vomiting. Thankfully, you can decrease your chances of developing altitude sickness by following a few simple steps prior to and after your arrival.

If possible, spend a night in Denver before traveling to Breckenridge. At an elevation of 5,280 feet, Denver provides an ideal acclimatization zone where an overnight stay can mitigate some of the effects of altitude before moving on to higher elevations.

Stay properly hydrated prior to your arrival and be sure to drink more water than you are accustomed to for the duration of your stay. Acclimating to high altitude is accompanied by fluid loss. As your breathing becomes more labored and you will 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 caffeine during the first days of your stay will also help ensure that your body maintains adequately hydrated. A diet that is high in carbohydrates may also be an effective means of adjusting to altitude.

Light activity during the first days of your stay is better for you than bed rest. Remaining in bed at your Breckenridge lodging property decreases your rate of respiration which can actually increase the effects of altitude sickness. Even if you're not feeling well, a quick walk around town will help you acclimate quicker than trying to sleep off your symptoms.

If you think you may be prone to the effects of altitude, consult your family physician prior to your departure for Breckenridge. He or she may 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 vacation and can help mitigate acute mountain sickness symptoms. Children may have Diamox prescribed for them in smaller doses than adults. You should also ask your physician if altitude may aggravate any other preexisting health conditions you may have.

While altitude sickness is capable of putting a tremendous damper on your ski vacation, following a few basic procedures can mitigate its effects for most travelers. When you first arrive in Breckenridge, it's important to remember not to "overdo it" when it comes to exertion and celebrating. Most importantly, if your symptoms worsen or do not clear up within a matter of a few days, consult a local physician.