Family travel and Altitude Sickness

Altitude Sickness and Family Travel

If you are travelling to a high altitude area you and your little ones could be at risk for altitude sickness. This is more common when over 8000 feet but may happen at lower elevations as well. Mild symptoms feel similar to a hangover – grumpiness, headache, insomnia, muscle aches, dizziness, fatigue and nausea. More severe symptoms include shortness of breath and vomiting. Mild symptoms usually improve in 24-48 hours. Read below for more advice on preventing and treating altitude sickness in adults and kids with family travel.

Why worry about altitude sickness?

Life threatening symptoms can occur when the increased elevation causes swelling of the brain ( high altitude cerebral edema) or fluid in the lungs (high altitude pulmonary edema). If you develop more severe symptoms you should seek medical attention immediately and be brought down below 4000 feet.

Prevention in Adults

Adults can prevent some symptoms by taking Diamox (or Dexamethasone) just prior and during a trip (it is a prescription – ask your doctor). Taking you time to adjust to the elevation can help as well (such as staying overnight in Denver prior to going to the mountains the following day). Also sleeping at a lower altitude can help (if skiing at 9000 feet try to sleep at 7000 if possible). Drink a lot of water and eat a lot of carbs (if in Breckenridge – Eric’s is great for carbs). I find that water and carbs make a big difference for me. Also avoid alcohol until your are adjusted. Over the counter headache medications are OK to take if you get a headache.

Altitude Sickness in Kids

Kids (especially younger kids and babies) also get altitude sickness but they also may not be able to tell you if they are having symptoms. They may come off as just being grumpy. I recommend skipping the higher altitude vacations until the kids are a little older – at least over 2. Take your time, and if your family has any concerning symptoms seek medical attention or head back down the mountain. I would be more comfortable with a home base at 6000 feet and shorter day trips in to the mountains (after a full day at a lower level) but I think taking a young child straight to the mountains and staying there may not be the best choice.

When to Go Back Down

If your child is vomiting, having difficulty breathing, or acting lethargic (very sleepy) then you need to get lower. If you are unable to get lower quickly or symptoms are severe please seek medical attention immediately.