Altitude Effects
 
It seems like one thing you don’t have to even consider when going on a national park vacation. But the effects of altitude need to be taken seriously, particularly if you plan on climbing some of the famous trails in parks such as Yosemite, Grand Teton and Olympic.
Healthy adults, even athletes and professional climbers are susceptible to altitude sickness. It can develop at altitiudes as low at 8,000 feet. You should be aware that older folks and those with heart or lung disease are more prone to altitude sickness. Regardless of what age you are or your health status you should be aware of the signs associated with altitude sickness.Â
Symptoms indlude headache, nausea, insomnia, irritablitly, shortness of breathgeneral malaise and fatigue. The good news is the altitude sick can be avoided by slowly acclimating yourself to highter elevations, over the span of two to three days by greadually gaining elevation until you reach 10,000 feet. Avoiding alcohol, sugar and high fat meals is also suggested.
Okay, now what if you are gaining elevation and suddenly develope any of the symptoms of altitude sickness? Descend to a lower eleveation immediatly. Seek medical help. For example Yosemite operates a clinic in Yosemite Valley. Yosemite Medical Clinic’s staff is experienced with diagnosing and treating altitude sickness. It is always good to know where the nearest clinic is when visiting a park and embarking on hiking, biking, rafting or any of the many recreational activities available in our national parks.