Will I get altitude sickness? Can I prevent or cure it?
We welcome you to the Mountains. To ensure you have the best experience possible, we have put together a list of valuable information about preparing for your trip.
Proper Clothing: Dress for cooler temperatures but be prepared for sudden weather changes. It?s colder at higher altitudes and layers of clothing are a good idea. It may feel colder or warmer depending on whether it?s windy or cloudy on one hand, or sunny with still air on the other. It?s best to dress in layers and wear breathable clothing, such as smart wool that keeps moisture away from the skin.
Sunburn: Because of the thinner atmosphere and reflection from snow or water, you can sunburn much more easily than most people think. Ultraviolet light is more intense at higher altitudes. Be sure to protect your face and lips with appropriate sunscreen (at least 15 SPF), and protect your eyes with sunglasses or goggles.
Altitude Sickness: Perhaps as many as half the visitors from lower elevations experience some form of altitude illness. The vast majority of cases are self-limited and spontaneously resolve as the body acclimatizes. Symptoms include fatigue, decreased appetite, shortness of breath with minimal exertion, nausea, headache and sleep disturbances. These symptoms are often worse the second day at altitude (but resolve in four to five days). Rest is the key to treating mild forms of altitude sickness.
1. Stay Properly Hydrated: Acclimatization is often accompanied by fluid loss, so you need to drink lots of fluids to remain properly hydrated (at least 3-4 quarts per day).
2. Avoid tobacco and alcohol and other depressant drugs during acclimation, which can also lead to dehydration.
3. Light Activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating Altitude Sickness symptoms.
Frostbite & Hypothermia: Frostbite results from cooling of body tissues and subsequent destruction of these tissues. This occurs when skin is exposed to cold and windy conditions. Fingers, ears and noses are especially susceptible. The best cure is prevention. Keep the skin covered and warm up frequently. If blisters, occur or if fingers or toes are involved, seek medical attention immediately. Over exposure to cold, wetness or wind can cause a very low internal body temperature known as hypothermia. Warning signs include shivering, fatigue, slowed pulse and bluish lip color. Hypothermia is life threatening. Victims of hypothermia should get to warmth and shelter, remove wet clothes, warm up in blankets, and drink warm, non-alcoholic beverages. Emergency medical attention should be sought immediately.
Have fun! You will discover a world of difference with a visit to our resorts. Vail Resorts has five premium year-round mountain resorts, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Heavenly - four of which are located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, and one which towers above California and Nevada?s majestic Lake Tahoe. All of Vail Resorts properties range in a huge variety of landscapes, ski and snowboard terrain, year-round activities, lodging, shopping, dining and more. On the slopes you will discover 15,618 acres/6,247 hectares of ski and snowboard terrain ranging from gently sloping beginner trains, to perfectly groomed intermediate runs to steep expert-only terrain. No matter which Vail Resorts destination you choose we want you to be safe and have a great time!