Altitude Sickness

Sitting at an altitude of over 9,000 feet, Peaks Medical and Urgent Care in Dillon, Colorado, understands the dangers of altitude sickness. The urgent care clinic, situated in Summit County, provides expert management for those experiencing altitude sickness, reducing the risk of complications. Call Peaks Medical and Urgent Care or come to the office now for help with altitude sickness. You can also use the online booking feature for less urgent matters or to schedule a virtual visit.

What is altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness may occur anytime you travel to places that are more than 8,000 feet above sea level.

Higher altitudes come with higher air pressure, lower amounts of oxygen, colder temperatures, and less humidity, making it harder for your body to get enough oxygen. 

Anyone can develop altitude sickness, even those in good overall health. However, you’re at a greater risk of getting sick when you travel to higher elevations if you have a heart or lung condition, you’re pregnant, or you live at or close to sea level. 

Peaks Medical and Urgent Care provides urgent care for those experiencing altitude sickness.

What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness symptoms vary depending on the severity of acute mountain sickness (AMS). There are three levels of severity for AMS:

Mild AMS

Mild AMS causes headaches and fatigue that don’t affect activity. Most people with altitude sickness experience mild AMS. 

Moderate AMS

Moderate AMS causes more noticeable symptoms that interfere with your activities, such as severe head pain, nausea, and poor coordination. 

Severe AMS

With severe AMS, you feel short of breath and have a hard time walking.

High-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) are more serious but less common conditions that occur with altitude sickness. HAPE and HACE are life-threatening and require immediate medical care. 

When should I seek urgent care for altitude sickness?

You should seek urgent care for altitude sickness at Peaks Medical and Urgent Care if you have trouble breathing, even when at rest. The urgent care clinic understands the symptoms and treatment for altitude sickness and can provide the expert care you need to feel better. 

You should also seek medical care if you're feeling very tired or confused. 

What are the treatments for altitude sickness?

The main treatment for altitude sickness is moving to a lower altitude. For mild AMS, your symptoms may resolve over time as long as you remain at the same altitude or move to a lower elevation.

Peaks Medical and Urgent Care may provide treatments such as medication to reduce head pain or oxygen therapy to help with breathing.

Anyone traveling to a higher elevation may develop altitude sickness. Peaks Medical and Urgent Care welcomes walk-ins for immediate care. You can also call the office or request an appointment online.