Simple Strategies for Dealing with Altitude Sickness Gently
Ignoring the physical effects of altitude sickness on your body during travel can put a damper on your adventure. It’s a common occurrence among travelers, but that doesn’t make it any less unpleasant. Symptoms can range from mild headaches and dizziness to more severe cases of nausea and shortness of breath. To ensure that altitude sickness doesn’t ruin your next vacation, here are some simple strategies for dealing with it gently.
What is Altitude Sickness?
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is caused by a lack of oxygen at high altitudes. As we ascend to higher altitudes, the air pressure decreases, making it harder for our bodies to take in and absorb enough oxygen. This can result in a variety of symptoms, including headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.
How to Prepare for Altitude Sickness
One of the best ways to handle altitude sickness is to prepare for it before it even strikes. If possible, try acclimatizing yourself to higher altitudes gradually. This means starting at a lower altitude and increasing your elevation slowly over time. It’s also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, as dehydration can worsen the effects of AMS.
Prevention
There are also some preventive measures you can take to minimize your chances of experiencing altitude sickness. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as these substances can cause dehydration and worsen symptoms. Additionally, consider taking over-the-counter medications, such as acetazolamide or ibuprofen, to help reduce symptoms.
Be Mindful of Your Altitude
When hiking or engaging in other physical activities at higher altitudes, be mindful of your altitude and any changes in elevation. If you start to experience symptoms of AMS, it’s important to take a break, rest, and drink plenty of water. Descending to a lower elevation can also help alleviate symptoms.
Natural Remedies for Altitude Sickness
There are also some natural remedies that can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness. Ginger, for example, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce nausea and dizziness. You can also try chewing on coca leaves or taking supplements containing ginkgo biloba, which both have been shown to improve oxygen flow and reduce symptoms of AMS.
Breathing Techniques
Practicing breathing techniques, such as deep breathing and taking slow, deliberate breaths, can also help you cope with altitude sickness. This can help get more oxygen into your system, reducing the effects of low oxygen levels at high altitudes.
Listen to Your Body
Ultimately, the best defense against altitude sickness is to listen to your body and take care of yourself. If you start to experience symptoms, don’t push yourself too hard and take breaks as needed. If symptoms persist or become severe, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
With these simple strategies, you can deal with altitude sickness gently and ensure that it doesn’t put a damper on your next adventure. By preparing beforehand and being mindful of your altitude and your body’s needs, you can minimize the effects of AMS and enjoy your travels to the fullest.
