Colorado is one of the most varied states, with Alma sitting at 10,000 feet above sea level. If you find those heights dizzying: you’re not alone! The higher elevation thins out air and decreases the amount of gravity pressing on your body. This can leave you feeling dizzy or disoriented and can be dangerous if you’re not prepared for it.
Here are the top ways to adapt to the higher elevation in Colorado without making yourself feel sick.
Take It Gradually
Although Alma does sit at 10,000 feet above sea level, you should try to build up to that gradually. The first day you’re in Colorado, try to stay in Colorado Springs, a city that’s only 6,000 feet above sea level. This will allow you to adapt and slowly work your way up to a higher elevation. Although you may feel slightly lightheaded your first day at this elevation, especially if you’ve lived at sea level your entire life, your body will acclimate, and you’ll be able to push forward.
Avoid Strenuous Exercise At First
Strenuous exercise may be the main reason some people travel to Colorado, with the popularity of rock climbing and the fun outdoors things you can do: but try to take it slow. If you’re already dizzy from the altitude change, throwing in a lot of physical strain and exercise might make you nauseous or fully pass out. It’s okay to go for a driving tour, but don’t push yourself too hard at first.
Limit How Much Alcohol You Drink
If you’re already dizzy and disoriented from being at a higher altitude: alcohol isn’t going to help you. Instead, try to cut back on how much you drink and how late you stay up partying. Your body is going through a large change, so it’s better to avoid pushing it to its limits or trying to get drunk on your first night in town. If you’re in a lower elevation, you can take it easier; at 5,000 feet above sea level, Denver apartments won’t spin around you the same way they would in Alma after a couple of sips of alcohol: but you should still drink responsibly.
Ensure You’re Getting Enough Air In
If you have a Fitbit or an Oura ring, try to keep track of your breaths and steps. These devices can help you decide if you’re getting enough oxygen or if you need to take it slow and be careful about your next step. The air is thinner the higher you go, so it’s important to try and keep yourself as oxygenated as you can.
Keep Hydrated
Drinking too much water can be just as bad for you as not drinking enough. While acclimating to the new elevation, try to drink when you’re thirsty. This may go against what many sites and popular media say, but over-drinking isn’t going to help you when you’re at a high elevation. Hydrate as much as your body needs, and don’t push it too far.
