HOW TO ADJUST TO HIGH ALTITUDE

You hear about it while watching a live sporting event from Denver. “The Lakers have to get used to the high altitude” or “The Chiefs seem to be struggling with the thin air.” It is called altitude sickness, and when you reach a certain altitude for the first time in a long time, you might experience one or more of its symptoms. 

Even Denver natives who have lived in the area for years can suddenly feel the negative impact of high altitude, especially older adults who must deal with a diminished respiratory system while living at an assisted living facility. Whether the symptom is nausea, exhaustion, or shortness of breath, let’s learn how to adjust to high altitude.

What is Altitude Sickness?

The symptoms of altitude sickness start to develop at around 5,000 feet, which is about the altitude of the Mile High City. You begin to take in less oxygen with each breath, which leads to the development of altitude sickness. The symptoms become more severe and develop much faster if you ascend to a high altitude at a fast pace. Several factors contribute to the development of altitude sickness, including how high you go, the composition of your genetic makeup, and the level of shape you are in, particularly when it comes to the respiratory system.

How to Adjust to High Altitude at a Senior Living Center

Seniors living in retirement communities in Denver, Colorado, have several ways to prevent the development of altitude sickness.

Stay Hydrated

Our bodies lose salt and water at a much faster rate as we gain altitude, even if we are sitting in a car ascending the Rocky Mountains. In addition, dry air and physical activity combine to break down the body. Many of the symptoms that develop with altitude sickness are similar to the symptoms of dehydration.’

Hydrate your body before you start to increase in altitude.

Slow Down 

You have to acclimate your body to high altitude before you can put your body through the stress generated by drier, thinner air. Eventually, your body adjusts to less oxygen, but it needs time to prepare for the adjustment. If you are new to the Denver area, adjust to the high altitude by first limiting physical exertion.

Increase Potassium Intake

Losing potassium is a common occurrence when you spend time at a high altitude. The result can be severe muscle cramping that does not let up until you reach a lower altitude. The answer to replenishing potassium levels lies in the types of food that you consume. Foods such as yogurt, spinach, bananas, and avocados represent rich sources of potassium.

You also should consider taking a potassium supplement.

Sleep Well

Another symptom of altitude sickness is insomnia, which means it can be difficult to get the body the rest it needs to handle higher altitudes. The best way to get enough good sleep is to descend to a lower altitude. For example, limit your exposure to higher altitudes by taking day trips to the surrounding mountains. Even a power nap during the day helps fend off the symptoms of altitude sickness.

MorningStar’s mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest” in our residents separates us from other senior living centers in Denver, CO. Our mission statement evolved from the unwavering commitment to God. Our caregivers possess servant hearts while meeting the needs of our residents. Schedule a tour today to learn more about MorningStar at Observatory Park.