| Every year skiing,
hiking, hunting, and other sports enthusiasts head for the high country of Colorado.
Individuals who ascend too rapidly to elevations 7,000 feet or higher are to some degree
affected by the lower oxygen content and dryness. As a result of the decreased oxygen at
high elevations, acute mountain sickness (AMS) may be the result. It is difficult to
predict who may or may not develop AMS. Although children are believed to be more
susceptible, anyone can get sick at high altitude. Even the physically fit person is not
immune. A
sudden change in elevation from sea level to high altitude can
affect individuals with a variety of symptoms, including headache,
fatigue, shortness of breath, sleeplessness, dizziness, nausea, mild
swelling of hands, face or ankles, coughing, diarrhea or
constipation. These
symptoms usually disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the lower oxygen levels.
If you find yourself suffering from any of the above symptoms, the best treatment
is aspirin, plenty of fluids and limited activity. Descent is usually unnecessary. If
symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
Fortunately, acute mountain sickness can be prevented with a few key precautions.
 | Take it slow and allow time for your body
to adjust to the external environment. |
| Drink at least six to eight glasses of
water or juice a day. |
| Consult your physician before traveling to
a high altitude area if you have a heart condition, Lung disease or diabetes. |
| Strenuous exercise may trigger AMS. |
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