What Altitude Sickness Taught Me About My Body
I really thought I was in good shape.
I drink water, I take care of myself, and I don’t usually struggle with things like dizziness or nausea so when I went on a mountain trip and started feeling off, I assumed I was just tired or maybe not eating enough.
But by the second day, I had a pounding headache, I felt like I couldn’t breathe fully, and I was getting lightheaded doing the simplest things.
It honestly scared me.
That’s when someone mentioned altitude sickness, and I went down the rabbit hole. I learned that when you go to high elevations especially above 8,000 feet your body has to work harder to get oxygen.
Even if you’re healthy, you can get hit HARD if you don’t give your body time to adjust.
What helped me was slowing way down, staying super hydrated, and letting go of the idea that I was just being dramatic.
Because I wasn’t.
My body was literally trying to protect me.
Altitude sickness taught me that health isn’t just about how you look or how in shape you are it’s about how your body responds to change.
Now I prepare differently for every trip, and I respect my body way more.
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), can affect anyone regardless of their fitness level. At elevations above 8,000 feet, the body struggles to obtain enough oxygen, leading to symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath. It is essential to acclimatize properly when ascending and to respect your body’s signals. Staying hydrated, resting, and avoiding strenuous activities are key strategies to mitigate the effects of altitude sickness. Gradually ascending, rather than pushing through discomfort, allows your body to adjust more effectively to the change in environment. Always consider traveling with hydration packs and electrolyte tablets. Preparing for hikes and noticing early symptoms can make a significant difference in your overall experience in high altitudes.