Preventing Altitude Sickness on the Slopes
Altitude sickness is an illness caused by an increase to higher elevation, which results in shortage of oxygen. The most common symptom is a headache accompanied by dizziness, upset stomach, or weakness/fatigue. The symptoms usually start 12-24 hours after reaching the altitude and anyone can feel the symptoms no matter what age or fitness level.
Here are some preventive altitude sickness tips to keep you riding on the Greatest Snow on Earth.
1) Know the early symptoms of altitude illness and be willing to acknowledge when they are present.
2) Be careful about alcohol intake. Yes, Utah is "infamous" for 3.2% beer but even this lower potency beverage can dehydrate you quickly at altitude. Not to mention, it's not all 3.2% as there are now plenty of high-point Utah beers to enjoy.
3) Increase water intake.
4) Never ascend to sleep at a higher altitude when experiencing symptoms; “climb high, sleep low.”
5) There are also medications available to help prevent altitude sickness, so talk to your doctor and get their advice.
6) Descend if the symptoms become worse while resting at the same altitude.
University of Utah Health Care is proud to be the official medical sponsor for Ski Utah, with four hospitals, ten community clinics and over 1,000 physicians, University of Utah Health Care has you covered both on the mountain, and in the valley this winter.
