High-Altitude Health Tips

HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR HIGH-ALTITUDE CONDITIONS?

Most people will adapt relatively well to the altitude on the valley floor in Jackson Hole, which is around 6,300 feet above sea level. The people who tend to have the biggest trouble often have preexisting medical problems, especially obstructive sleep apnea, high blood pressure, heart failure, heart disease, pulmonary hypertension or chronic lung conditions. Even healthy visitors can occasionally have issues with the altitude during activity. I see several patients every week who were given the “all clear” by their providers back home and then experienced worsening of their usually well-controlled medical problems when they came to Jackson Hole. If you have a significant preexisting medical condition, seek advice from a qualified medical provider who is experienced in altitude medicine. There are medications that can be prescribed in advance to help reduce your risk of getting sick.

Dr Jim Little, Jr

Family Health + Urgent Care

WHAT DOES ALTITUDE SICKNESS FEEL LIKE?

The most common form of altitude sickness here is called acute mountain sickness. The symptoms are: headache, nausea, fatigue and sometimes shortness of breath. Generally, those symptoms worsen at higher elevations or during exertion. If you feel that you might be suffering from acute mountain sickness, descend to the valley floor, stay hydrated, get some rest, and most of the symptoms will pass. If you are having trouble adapting to the elevation of Jackson Hole, you shouldn’t go to Yellowstone until symptoms resolve—most of the Yellowstone plateau is significantly higher than Jackson Hole. Two serious types of altitude sickness are highaltitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE). In general, these don’t occur very often below 12,000 feet. However, HAPE (fluid in the lungs) can occur at much lower elevations in people who have preexisting medical conditions.

HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF FROM ALTITUDE SICKNESS?

1. Stay well hydrated. Due to our dry climate here, it’s very easy to get dehydrated. 2. Limit your alcohol intake. 3. Get plenty of rest and transition gradually from the valley floor to higher elevations. Don’t try to tackle a steep trail or climb a mountain on your first day or two. There is less oxygen in the air here, so your aerobic capacity is decreased. As your body adjusts, you can build up to higher elevations and more strenuous physical activity.

WHAT IF I’M STILL NOT FEELING WELL?

It’s good to see a doctor who can verify that you’re not having more serious problems. Unrelated cardiac problems or other medical issues can have similar symptoms to those of altitude sickness.

Sunburn At higher elevations, you are more susceptible to sunburn. SPF 15 or higher is adequate. Reapply throughout the day. A good pair of sunglasses, widebrimmed hat and long sleeves and pants are also recommended.

Sports Injuries Wearing a helmet when snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking or riding horses can help protect you from serious injury.

Wear Adequate Layers Be prepared for inclement weather and drops in temperature. The best layers are wool or synthetic fibers.

Insects and Other Small Critters Mosquitoes, deer flies and horseflies are common stinging insects here. Use a bug repellent or pre-treat clothing with permethrin spray. Also, check yourself for ticks.

Whatever you’re here for, we’re here for you.

www.stjohns.health