Altitude Effects on Exercise

High altitude exercise can be great fun. It can also have serious effects on someone not in shape for the experience. The air is thinner, which means the oxygen pressure is lower at high altitudes. The heart must work harder by beating faster to meet the body's oxygen needs.

Sudden changes in altitude and workload can be life-threatening. Distress symptoms during exercise include shortness of breath, rapid breathing, faster heart rate, poor athletic performance, and early fatigue. Take care. Slow your pace if climbing or hiking up to higher ground. Avoid hard workouts for a few days upon arrival at a higher altitude.

Other problems may develop at high altitude. These include headache, agitation, nausea and vomiting, a general ill feeling, loss of appetite, and an inability to sleep. The body needs time to adjust to a high altitude. It does so by making more red blood cells to carry more oxygen. It takes about 2 to 3 weeks for the body to fully adjust to moderate altitude. Return to a lower altitude if the symptoms do not go away.

Rare but serious problems may occur when progressing too fast from your normal altitude to a higher one. Watch for extreme shortness of breath, rapid breathing and pulse, and weakness. Chest pain, severe headache, and confusion may require immediate medical care.

Fit people are less likely to feel the effects of higher altitudes. Train lightly when first relocating to higher altitudes. Allow your body several days to adapt to the new altitude. Take time to rest. Drink plenty of fluids. Return to a lower altitude if symptoms occur and do not improve. Medical care may be needed at this time.

Be prepared whether you are hiking, climbing, or biking in the mountains. Get in shape for the event first. Do not overdo it once you are there. Listen to your body and use common sense.

The specialists at Saint Vincent Sports Medicine offer PPT – Performance, Prevention and Treatment – strategies for athletes of all ages. For more information about the exercise that’s right for you, contact Saint Vincent Sports Medicine at 814-866-3466.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.