Going from a low altitude (chicago) to a high altitude (denver/vail, CO) is it more difficult to breath?

Answer 1

If you're in good health, you shouldn't notice any significant difference in breathing, especially in Denver, which is only 5,280 feet. Vail is over 9,000 feet and you would notice a difference when you exert yourself at first, but it's something you can get used to very quickly. Remember, millions of people come to Colorado from the flatlands all winter long and go directly to the ski slopes, ski like crazy, drink like dogs and get up the next morning and do it all over again without dropping dead (except for a few old ones who were headed for a heart attack anyway).

The reasonable way to acclimate yourself to the high altitude is to take it easy the first few days, and most importantly, drink water like it's going out of style. Colorado is a semi-arid, desert-like climate; if you get dehydrated, it will worsen the affects of the altitude. You should also limit alcohol and fatty foods, but that's no fun. If you experience a headache, take some over-the-counter meds of your choice. If you pass out, see a doctor.

Honestly, if my old mother can visit every Christmas from Boston without a problem, you can too!

Answer 2

It is not hard to breath in the sense that you are struggling for air but yes for the first three to four days people do tend to tire easily, even more so when they do any form of physical activity, also people tend to get drunk a lot quicker until they become acclimatised. Although if you are in reasonably good health you shouldn't notice it too much and the effects will be lesser.

The best advice is to drink A LOT of water and stay hydrated!

I see this all the time when family members come to visit and with tourists who have just arrived.

Answer 3

Yes, the higher you go, the thinner the air is meaning there is less oxygen and you have to breath more to get enough oxygen. That's why long distance runners like to train at high altitudes. It makes breathing easier when they come back down to compete.

Answer 4

only if you have asthma or you're doing hours of physical activity.
drink plenty of water.
don't drink too much alcohol.
i actually thought it was easier to breathe in the mountains because the air was so crisp and clean. denver--smog.

Answer 5

Yes ,a little bit .You will be going from sea level to 5280 feet.
after a few days you'll get adjusted. just take it easy and drink plenty of water,

Answer 6

YES your going to need an oxygen mask for the first month or so. Handling anything will tire you out so you will need people to do everything for you. I will take care of all your money for that time.............Not a problem, you won't even notice it.

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