Altitude Sickness in the Colorado Mountains

Altitude sickness is experienced at, you guessed it, high altitude. This could be a problem when you first arrive in Colorado, especially if you come from a low altitude area of the country. Or you might not fell it until you decide to visit Mount Evans, Pikes Peak, or one of the other mountains that are on your "must see" list.



Becoming sick is even more likely in the mountains. But with the proper precautions, it can be taken care of easily. If you are sick when you first arrive, don’t worry! Your body will become acclimated to the altitude in a day or two.

Symptoms:

Even people who have always lived in Colorado can experience this. The height at which you can get sick varies from person to person. I went to Pikes Peak and did not get sick, but I felt dizzy, breathless, and queasy when I went to Mount Evans, and there’s only a difference of a hundred feet or so!

Prevention:

Avoid hard exertion and drinking alcohol for your first 24 hours in high altitude. Drink lots of water!

If you become sick while you’re in the mountains, go slow when you descend and that will help too.

Return to the Denver Colorado Tourist Guide from Altitude Sickness