Tampa Travelers: Your Lungs Need You to Learn About Altitude

When was the last time you reconnected with Mother Nature, and not in the sense that you opened the windows at home in order to enjoy the delightful cool breeze outside? I’m talking about really getting outdoors, away from the hustle and bustle of city or suburban life, and appreciating the pure untouched beauty of nature.

For most of us, that is simply not an activity in which we can partake on a regular basis, especially considering Florida’s flat topography and Tampa’s metropolitan attributes. Granted, there are some pristine outdoor preserves in Tampa Bay, but if you don’t live in a place that has easy access to breathtaking mountain views, then by default you aren’t going to be able to connect with those things regularly.

However, that is no excuse not to venture off into the mountains from time to time. During the winter and spring months, you should plan to hit the slopes with family and friends. During summer and fall, go on an outdoor adventure trip that includes everything from whitewater rafting, to hiking, to mountain biking.

In addition to the logistical details that coordinating this kind of excursion will require, it is also important that you are aware of the effects of changes in altitude. As Florida residents, our bodies are not used to experiencing high levels of altitude. When you travel to the mountains, regardless of time of year, you need to make sure your family is prepared for the environmental changes, particularly the higher altitude.

No matter how healthy you may think you are, sudden and drastic climate changes can seriously affect your overall health. The reason why altitude has such a powerful role is because it affects oxygen levels. Basically, air pressure and oxygen count are both considerably lower in places of high altitudes, which is bound to have an effect on your breathing.

Those who suffer from asthma, pulmonary disorders, or respiratory problems, are more likely to feel physical discomfort in high altitude climates. However, that does not mean these folks should not be allowed to enjoy the great outdoors in the mountains. It simply means that people with heart or lung problems need to be extra cautious, as do those who are of an older age and those who are not in the best physical shape.

Not only can abrupt changes in altitude trigger breathing problems and feelings of fatigue, but they can also lead to altitude sickness. In worst-case situations, altitude sickness can be life threatening, which is why you need to be aware of its symptoms:

· Dizziness

· Nausea

· Swollen feet

· Headache

· Lack of sleep

The key to avoiding altitude sickness, and any other altitude-related health problems, is precautionary measures. As long as you apply the following practices to your outdoor adventure, your body should adjust to the altitude just fine.

Increased Inhaling for Optimal Oxygen: Yoga is one of the best things you can do to improve your current breathing methods. However, if Namaste poses are not your thing, all you need to do is get in the habit of inhaling for as long as possible, briefly holding that breath, and then exhaling slowly. This technique helps your body increase oxygen levels in your blood flow, which is necessary since that level naturally decreases as altitude increases.

Move Up Mindfully and Moderately: Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when changing altitudes is that slow and steady wins the race. All mountain activities must be performed with extra caution and you must pay close attention to your body’s physical state. Take breaks when needed and stop ascending all together if necessary.

Adaptation Depends on Hydration: Consuming water is an essential part of health under any circumstances, but it becomes even more critical when you’re increasing altitudes. Drink more water than you think is necessary just to be safe and try to avoid alcoholic beverages, which have a dehydrating effect on your body.

Bill Jackson’s Shop for Adventure, which is a local treasure to the Tampa Bay area, was built with nature in mind and continues to worship the great outdoors. The expert staff at Bill Jackson’s can not only equip you with the best gear and equipment, they can also guide you through all your outdoor adventures.