“Stomach Bugs vs. Altitude Nausea: How to Tell the Difference
Dec 29, 2025
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Feeling queasy in the mountains? You're not alone. Nausea is one of the most common complaints we see at Peaks Medical and Urgent Care in Summit County—and it’s not always easy to tell what’s causing it.
Is it something you ate, a virus you picked up, or just your body adjusting to the altitude?
Let’s break down the differences between stomach bugs and altitude-related nausea, so you can recognize the symptoms and know when to seek help.
Feeling nauseated while traveling or after a change in routine can be uncomfortable—and confusing. Is it something you ate, a virus you picked up, or is your body reacting to a higher altitude? Understanding the difference between a stomach bug and altitude-related nausea can help you recognize symptoms early and know when it’s time to seek medical care.
Stomach Bugs: What to Watch For
Stomach bugs, often caused by viruses such as norovirus, are common and highly contagious. Symptoms usually come on quickly and may include:
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Nausea and vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Stomach cramps
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Fever or body aches
These symptoms often spread through close contact or contaminated food and surfaces. Staying hydrated and resting is essential, but medical care may be needed if symptoms become severe or persistent.
Altitude-Related Nausea
When traveling to higher elevations, your body may need time to adjust to lower oxygen levels. Altitude-related nausea is often part of mild altitude sickness and may be accompanied by:
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Headache
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Dizziness or lightheadedness
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Fatigue
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Loss of appetite
Unlike a stomach bug, altitude-related symptoms usually improve with rest, hydration, and gradual acclimatization.
Knowing When to Seek Care
If nausea is severe, persistent, or accompanied by dehydration, high fever, confusion, or worsening symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention. Early evaluation can help prevent complications and get you feeling better sooner.
We’re Here to Help
At Peaks Medical & Urgent Care, our team can help determine the cause of your symptoms and provide prompt treatment. Whether it’s a stomach bug, altitude-related illness, or something else, we’re here to support your health and help you get back to feeling your best.