From dizziness to shortness of breath: when high altitude air causes health problems

Do you live in the city? Then you may have already experienced it: as soon as you arrive at high altitude, you feel slightly dizzy, you breathe more heavily, and your stomach feels queasy. Many people also complain of high altitude headaches. But are all these symptoms cause for concern? Usually not at all! As long as you are staying at an altitude of around 3,000 metres, as in our South Tyrolean mountain hotel, you don't have to fear any negative consequences. Quite the opposite: even though it is possible that high altitudes may cause health problems at first, even from the so-called threshold altitude of 2,500 metres. In the vast majority of cases, however, you will get used to the new "level" all by yourself.

What happens in your body? The air pressure steadily starts to decrease at 1,000 metres above sea level already. We can usually cope with this without any problems. Your body acclimatises. Should the mountain air still cause health issues, give yourself some time and don't overexert yourself. Drink plenty of water, eat light food, avoid alcohol, and listen carefully to your body.

Altitude sickness is only a risk above 4,000 metres above sea level. You should prepare yourself professionally for a tour at this altitude.

High altitudes and sleep problems: why does mountain air make you sleepy?

Normally, a tour in the mountains revitalises and refreshes you. From 2,500 to 3,000 metres, however, mountain air can also lead to tiredness. Drowsiness, just like loss of appetite, slight nausea, headaches, and heavy breathing, is a completely normal sign that you still have to get used to the mountain air. You may also find that your sleep quality worsens at high altitude. All these reactions can be explained by the fact that the low air pressure is a stress factor for your body. Once you have acclimatised, however, the symptoms disappear as if by magic.

Heart disease, COVID and asthma: going to high altitudes with a pre-existing condition?

Are asthma and high altitudes compatible? Can you go to high altitudes after a COVID infection? And is it advisable to climb high peaks with a heart condition? Let's look at the answers one by one:

Mountain air can actually help with asthma. One reason for this is that there are fewer pollutants and allergens in fresh mountain air. Secondly, the lower oxygen content interrupts the immune chain reaction. This can also prevent asthma attacks. 

Even after a COVID infection, it is advisable to spend time at higher altitudes: altitude air stimulates the immune system and revitalises the body.

However, if you have cardiovascular disease, it is advisable to consult a doctor beforehand. Be sure to clarify how much you can handle at what altitude.

Last but not least: is mountain air really as healthy?

We have already implied several times that mountain air is very healthy. If you spend time at an altitude of just over 3,000 metres, you can only benefit.

Have you ever wondered why so many top athletes do altitude training? It's because reduced air pressure causes more EPO to be released - a "natural doping hormone" that causes more red blood cells to be produced. This in turn means that your blood can transport more oxygen, which improves your well-being and health and significantly increases your performance.

The decelerating tranquillity, being surrounded by nature, the natural sunlight and the increased proportion of infrared light also have an effect at high altitudes. The latter has antibacterial effects and activates the immune cells. Smog and radiation are also reduced in fresh mountain air, so you can literally breathe deeply and relax.

Are you convinced of the benefits of mountain air? Then book your stay at our glacier hotel in Val Senales - the highest hotel in Europe!