Colorado’s stunning mountains have a lot to offer. Whether you’re visiting in the warmer summer months, or are visiting for your annual ski trip, it is important to understand how changes in altitude can impact your body. Being at a high altitude means that there is less oxygen for your body to utilize. Altitude sickness can happen when you’re exerting your body and unable to get enough oxygen. It is important to understand the risks associated with altitude sickness so that you stay safe while enjoying the great outdoors during your visit to Colorado. If you’re experiencing symptoms of altitude sickness, AFC Urgent Care Farmington can help. Our medical providers are experts at identifying symptoms of altitude sickness and can help you manage your symptoms. Simply walk into the clinic, we are open 7 days a week and accept walk-in patients!
Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness can happen to anyone. If you’re acclimated to high elevations, you are less likely to experience altitude sickness. Many people who are not accustomed to high altitudes may not know the dangers associated with altitude sickness, which can lead to a dangerous situation.
Symptoms of altitude sickness can vary. For most people, symptoms of altitude sickness include feeling light-headed, easily winded, inability to catch your breath, nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, and confusion. If you’re someone who is visiting Colorado to enjoy skiing or hiking, symptoms of altitude sickness can be dangerous and leave you feeling disorientated in the wilderness. It is important to monitor your body for signs of altitude sickness and retreat to a lower elevation if you’re experiencing symptoms.
Is Altitude Sickness Preventable?
If you’re planning to travel to Colorado and have never been to a high altitude area before, understanding the risks of altitude sickness is important so that you can have a safe and enjoyable trip. There are medications available that help prevent the effects of altitude sickness. Your medical provider will be able to advise on your eligibility to use such medications. Budgeting extra time into your schedule to acclimate to the elevation slowly is the most effective way to ensure that you can safely participate in activities at a high altitude. Staying hydrated and allowing your body enough recovery time can also help prepare it to recover quicker from changes in elevation.
Treatment for Altitude Sickness near Farmington, CO
If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, it is important that you return to a lower altitude. In some cases, administering oxygen can help temporarily manage symptoms like blurred vision and dizziness. If you are visiting a high-altitude area and your body is not acclimatized to high altitudes, you may be able to contact your medical provider to request altitude sickness medications prior to your trip. These medications will not totally eliminate the risk of altitude sickness and they may not be available to individuals with underlying health conditions, so it is important to speak to your medical provider regarding your eligibility.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Farmington for Altitude Sickness Care
If you’re visiting Colorado and are experiencing symptoms of altitude sickness, AFC Urgent Care Farmington can help. Our board-certified medical providers are trained to identify symptoms of altitude sickness and provide supportive care. Our clinic is open 7 days a week and we never require that you schedule an appointment in advance. Simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you, we maintain short wait times and treat patients of all ages! For more information, contact us directly by calling (505) 326-6000.
