Visit our urgent care today for altitude sickness. We offer care and treatment on a walk-in basis or by appointment. Open 7 days.

If you’ve ever been adventurous enough to scale our Rockies and brave the high altitude, you may find yourself experiencing dizziness, nausea, headaches, or shortness of breath. You may unfortunately have altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS). This condition occurs when your body struggles to adjust to lower oxygen levels at elevations above 8,000 feet. While symptoms can be mild, some cases require medical attention to prevent serious complications.

At AFC Fort Collins, we provide prompt treatment for altitude sickness to help you recover quickly and safely. Whether you’re a visitor or a local resident exploring our high-altitude areas, we are here to help you feel better fast.

What Causes Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness occurs when you ascend to a high elevation too quickly, preventing your body from acclimating properly to reduced oxygen levels. Risk factors include:

• Traveling above 8,000 feet too quickly (such as flying into a high-altitude city)
• Strenuous physical activity at high elevations
• Pre-existing respiratory conditions
• Dehydration or alcohol consumption at high altitudes

Your body typically needs a few days to adjust to the thinner air, and symptoms often improve with time. However, severe cases can lead to dangerous conditions such as high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), which require emergency medical care.

Common Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

Symptoms of altitude sickness can range from mild to severe and typically appear within a few hours of ascending. They may include:

• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue or weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of appetite

Severe cases may cause confusion, chest tightness, difficulty walking, or worsening shortness of breath, which require immediate medical attention.

How Is Altitude Sickness Treated?

If you are experiencing altitude sickness, our urgent care providers will evaluate your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. Treatment options may include:

• Oxygen therapy – Supplemental oxygen helps increase oxygen levels in your blood and alleviate symptoms.
• IV fluids – Hydration therapy helps combat dehydration and improve circulation at high altitudes.
• Over-the-counter medications – Pain relievers for headaches and anti-nausea medication can ease discomfort.
• Acetazolamide (Diamox) – A prescription medication that helps speed up acclimatization by stimulating deeper breathing.

When to Visit Urgent Care for Altitude Sickness

You should seek medical attention if:

• Your symptoms do not improve with rest and hydration
• You experience confusion, severe headaches, or chest tightness
• Shortness of breath worsens even at rest
• You are vomiting and unable to keep fluids down

Walk-In Altitude Sickness Treatment at AFC Fort Collins

If altitude sickness is interfering with your travel plans or daily activities, don’t wait to feel better. Visit AFC Fort Collins for fast and effective treatment. Our walk-in clinic is open every day, including weekends, with no appointment necessary.