Preventing Altitude Sickness in Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge offers a variety of choices for fun and entertainment but many people don't realize that the high altitude can take some getting used to.

Here are some general tips to help acclimate to the high altitude of Breckenridge quickly so you can have the ski trip of your life:

When you fly into Denver, spend a night there in order to get acclimated
One of the things you have to be aware of when skiing or doing anything active in Breckenridge is altitude sickness.It is the result of the body's adjustment to the rapid change in altitude and increased effort to get enough oxygen from the thin air. That's why Denver is a good first stop. Take advantage of being in the Mile High City because Denver is at a lower elevation than Breckenridge and staying there for a day or two will help you get used to the higher altitudes easier than if you were to drive straight up to Breckenridge. Furthermore, Denver has some great places to visit. In fact, Denver's museums, zoo, performing arts complex and baseball stadium are some of the most visited attractions in the country.

When driving to Breckenridge, be sure to take extra caution
After a day or two in Denver, you're ready to hit the road but you want to be careful. Driving in snow in the mountains is nothing like taking the highway to get to Disney. Driving in the snow requires patience and caution. Leave plenty of room between you and the cars in front of you; if they have to come to a sudden stop you may not have the time or ability to avoid hitting them. If you're renting a car, 4-wheel drive or all-wheel drive will always be your best bet. But if that's not an option for you, front wheel drive gives you better control than rear wheel drive. Make sure the car has anti-lock breaks and airbags, too.

Now let's hit the slopes...but wait!
Altitude sickness is no joke. While its symptoms can start out mild they can become much worse. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, insomnia, shortness of breath, loss of appetite and fatigue. Your doctor can prescribe Diamox and be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine for the first few days, as they will make your symptoms worse. Furthermore, when you do have alcohol, you'll notice the effects sooner than at sea level, so drink in moderation. Take it easy your first couple of days and resist the temptation to overexert yourself on the slopes, as well. For mild symptoms (or just as a novelty!), visit Breckenridge's Oxygen Bar. The surge of O2 will rejuvenate your body and experimenting with the scented air can be fun. However, if at any time you notice your lips or fingernails turning blue or gray see a doctor immediately, as these are signs of more severe altitude sickness.

Time to eat!

Breckenridge has great restaurants - everything from happy hour hangouts to fine dining. But if you want to save a little money by buying groceries and making your own meals from your Breckenridge rental, always look for high altitude instructions on packages. And be aware that food takes longer to cook in the thin air so you'll likely need more water to prevent drying out or even burning your meal.

As great a vacation as this can be, remember that you have to be aware of a few precautions, especially the effects high altitude and driving in the snow. But follow these tips and you should have the time of your life.