High altitude situations

Planning a vacation or business trip to a sky-high location?

The higher the altitude, the less oxygen in the atmosphere. For example, the air at 14,000 feet contains 42% less oxygen than at sea level!

Until you’ve acclimated to the altitude, you may be headachy, fatigued, winded and experience sleep problems.

Be sure to drink plenty of water—even if you’re not thirsty—to acclimate to high altitude.

The air up there isn’t just “thinner” (less oxygen), it’s also drier.

Avoid alcohol for the first few days, as it dehydrates. An electrolyte drink can give you an extra edge. If you feel queasy or your head hurts, drink some ginger tea.

Build your endurance gradually if you plan to hike or exercise.