How to prevent Altitude Sickness

Ross Armour. MD, is a physician at Berthoud Family Physicians

Question: I'm so excited to go skiing this year in Colorado. What do I need to know about altitude sickness?

Answer: While the perils of ski-hill injury and back-country avalanche are well-known, altitude illness remains less acknowledged. Since the invention of the barometer in the 17th century, it has been well-documented that ambient pressure falls as one climbs to higher altitudes, and as a result, the pressure of oxygen decreases in a parallel fashion. 

There are many different types of Altitude Illness but the most common in Colorado is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). It is seen more frequently in high-altitude visitors who reside at altitudes below 3,000 feet.  In a series of studies, 40 percent to 50 percent of lowland-living individuals who ascended to 14,000 feet had symptoms of AMS. 

As mentioned, poor sleep is a very common symptom of AMS, but the most common is headache.  Others in descending order of frequency include poor appetite, fatigue, nausea and vomiting.  The severity of any of these symptoms often is quite debilitating, with the sufferer seeking medical attention.  As the majority of Colorado ski areas are between 8,500 and 12,000 feet in elevation, taking steps to prevent AMS--especially in our guests from lower elevations—is important.

The best prevention for AMS is to acclimate by slow ascent.  Climbers have known that above 8,000 to 10,000 feet, ascending no more than 1,000 feet per day, especially in those prone to AMS, diminishes the risk greatly.  While climbers may have the luxury of time to acclimate, those on ski vacations often are not able to use the gradual ascent method.  My advice to travelers and guests is drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and limit activity for the initial 24-48 hours at altitude.  While these measures are generally accepted to reduce the risk of AMS, it may still occur, requiring further treatment.

There are two medications are available to mitigate symptoms or prevent them in travelers who are known to have had Acute Mountain Sickness:  Acetazolamide and Dexamethazone.  Aspirin and Gingko Biloba can be preventative measures. Consulting with your physician will allow you to best decide how to prevent and ease the symptoms of altitude illness and enjoy your high-country experience.