Acclimating to Altitude

–RELAX: Take it easy the first day or two.
–DRINK PLENTY OF FLUIDS: Hydration is the key. Avoid caffeinated beverages. Drink enough water to make your urine clear.
–EAT A HIGH CARBOHYDRATE DIET: Reduce fat intake and increase complex carbohydrates such as pasta, rice, and whole grain breads.
–AVOID ALCOHOL: Alcohol, tranquilizers and sleeping pills can slow the body’s adjustment to higher elevations. Refrain from their use for the first two nights, if possible.

Altitude Sickness

Symptoms: drowsiness, dizziness, fainting, severe prolonged headaches, extreme thirst, sleeplessness, appetite loss, weakness, nausea, vomiting, heart palpitations, pounding pulse, congested lungs, difficulty breathing and coughing can all be symptoms of altitude sickness. Some of these conditions can be life-threatening. Being in excellent physical condition has no bearing on one’s ability to acclimate to higher altitudes.