While exploring in the mountains can be beautiful, it can also be dangerous if you don’t take the right precautions. Especially if you are visiting from an area lower in elevation, you may need some time to adjust to the new altitude before setting off on one of the many ATV trails in Colorado. One of the best ways to avoid a traumatic experience is to recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness when they occur so that you can take the necessary steps to recover or help a friend who needs it.
Causes Of Altitude Sickness
Ultimately, the cause of altitude sickness is due to less oxygen, which is common in higher altitudes. Your body needs you to breathe deeper and faster to keep up, and many people just can’t get the levels that are necessary to sustain the body’s proper function. Because of this, the symptoms of altitude sickness are similar to those you may have experienced by holding your breath underwater too long or after a night of drinking.
Symptoms Of Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness manifests itself in many different ways including:
- Headache: Sometimes sharp, usually throbbing and gets worse when you first wake up in the morning.
- Nausea or vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Dizziness
- Severe fatigue
- Weakness
In severe cases, people also experience confusion, blue lips, blue fingernails, inability to walk straight, and others. If any of these symptoms appear, contact the nearest medical professional right away and get the treatment you need. Stay tuned to learn more about how to prevent altitude sickness, so you can truly enjoy your trip to Estes Park!
