Denver Climate and High Altitude Health Tips

The Denver Climate

Denver boasts a moderate climate where the weather is typically mild and dry. During the fall and winter, daytime temperatures can range from very warm to crisp and cool.  Sunglasses are a must, with nearly 300 days of sunny weather each year.  Because DU is located one mile above sea level, please be sure to drink plenty of water and allow time to acclimate to the altitude.

High Altitude Health Tips

Denver’s altitude is 5,280 feet. As you ascend to higher altitudes, atmospheric pressure decreases, the air is thinner and less oxygen is available. It is also colder, drier and the ultraviolet rays from the sun are stronger. Each of these changes may have unpleasant effects on your body.

The mountains of Colorado are among the most beautiful parts of the United States and we hope you enjoy every minute of your visit. However, some of the very features that make this area so attractive may also cause you problems, unless you are able to recognize the symptoms and know how to prevent them.

Avoid Altitude Illness:

• Increase Fluid Intake
• Decrease Salt Intake
• Moderate Your Physical Activity
• Eat High Carbohydrate, Low Fat Meals
• Reduce Alcohol and Caffeine Intake
• Feeling Worse? Seek Help

Before you leave home, you can do a few things to decrease the effects of high altitude. Spending two nights at modest altitude, 5000 to 6000 feet (Denver’s altitude is 5,280 feet) may decrease symptoms when you ascend. Eating foods which are high in carbohydrates, drinking more water than usual and using less salt may also help.

After arriving at high altitude, you will probably notice that your breathing is faster and/or deeper, and you may feel short of breath especially when exercising. This is the body’s first and most effective response to higher elevation. In addition your heart is likely to beat faster and you may develop nausea, unusual tiredness, headache, or have difficulty sleeping.

Once you arrive take it easy for the first day or two. Adequate hydration is important in the prevention of altitude illness. Drink two or three times more water or fluid than usual. Limit alcohol consumption for two or three days and minimize caffeine intake. Limit salty foods and increase carbohydrate consumption. Above all, listen to your body! Do not push the limits of your physical capabilities. If you feel worse, seek medical attention! Minor altitude illness symptoms can occasionally become life threatening.
 
These tips are courtesy of High Country Health Care serving Colorado’s Park and Summit counties:
www.highcountryhealth.com/articles/hchealth.htm