Health Care in Vail

Visitors who live at lower elevations may experience a period of physical adjustment when they reach higher altitudes and need time for their bodies to acclimate.

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Colorado Mountain Medical
970.476.5695 or 970.476.7600
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Recreational activities at a higher elevation intensify the demand for oxygen on your body. Symptoms of altitude sickness may include fatigue, decreased appetite, shortness of breath, nausea, headache, and sleep disturbances. By knowing a few facts on how your body responds to a higher altitude, you may be able to enjoy your visit more fully.

High Altitude Advice Be aware of your activity level. High altitude sickness most commonly occurs at elevations greater than 8,000 feet. At this elevation, oxygen is 40-45% less dense than at sea level and has 50-80% less humidity. Ease into exercise at first and enjoy your unscheduled time!

QUICK TIP: Moderate your physical activity, eat high carbohydrate and low fat meals, and limit alcohol.

Dehydration Hydration is the key to healthier travel! Be sure to drink a lot of water, especially if you are participating in physical activities. It sounds simple, yet is often overlooked. Dehydration may be caused by the higher elevation and dry climate. The dry mountain air increases your respiratory rate due to the lower oxygen content, which can be made greater with alcohol consumption. Alcohol and caffeine intake should be used with caution.

QUICK TIP: Keep a bottle of water with you. An adult should drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water per day.

Sunburn Be sure not to underestimate the sun at a higher elevation. Spend less time in the sun than you would normally at home. Always wear sunscreen and don't forget your sunglasses or goggles! You are more than a mile closer to the sun than you are at sea level and there is less atmosphere to block out the sun's rays. Sunburns occur much faster. Be careful of the sun reflecting off the snow and back onto the body.

QUICK TIP: Protect yourself by wearing a hat, sunglasses & sunscreen (SPF 15-30).
Carry nourishing lotion or Aloe Vera gel for dry skin & overexposure.

Medical Concerns & Contacts:

For high altitude symptoms or medical issues of concern, please contact:

The Vail Valley Medical Center: 970.476.2451 (181 West Meadow Drive)

Vail Ski Patrol is available for on-mountain emergencies.
Red emergency telephones can be found on ski slopes throughout Vail Mountain.