How to Adjust to High Altitudes
- 1). Try to ease your way into high altitudes. If you’re driving, spend a few nights at moderate altitude (5,000 to 6,000 feet) before climbing to your destination. Don’t go from flatland Kansas to Colorado’s Rocky Mountains in one day.
- 2). Drink plenty of clear liquids. The low humidity at high altitude tends to dehydrate you, which can make you feel sick. To do the most good, start consuming liquids a couple days before you arrive at your mountain destination. Water, juice and sports drinks are great options for replenishing lost fluids.
- 3). Avoid alcohol and excessive salt for a few days before and after your arrival at high altitude. These items exacerbate dehydration.
- 4). Take it easy for the first few days at high altitude. The reduced amount of oxygen at high altitude puts a strain on your heart and lungs, so let them adjust. Get plenty of sleep—altitude can make you feel lethargic. When you do start being physically active again, go slow. Try a short hike or bike ride first and build up your endurance.
- 5). Treat your symptoms. Headaches are common, so keep a pain reliever on hand. Nausea is another frequent symptom, so try taking motion sickness medicine and drinking carbonated soda to settle your stomach.
Source...