Denver's D: Altitude AC Blocking Summer Youth?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe Front Range is calling, and your kids are answering with boundless energy. But Denver’s altitude and intense summer sun demand extra vigilance, especially when it comes to altitude sickness. Don’t let a preventable illness sideline your family’s summer fun.
Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), can strike anyone above 8,000 feet, and Denver sits at a mile high (5,280 feet), with youth sports fields often at higher elevations. Children are particularly vulnerable because they may not be able to articulate their symptoms clearly. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to recognize, prevent, and respond to altitude sickness in your active kids, ensuring a safe and enjoyable summer in the Mile High City.
Recognizing Altitude Sickness in Children
The symptoms of altitude sickness in children can be subtle and easily mistaken for other ailments. Unlike adults, children may not complain of a headache, the most common symptom in adults. Instead, look for these signs:
Irritability and Fussiness: A sudden change in mood, especially in younger children, can be an early indicator. Is your usually happy child unusually cranky?
Loss of Appetite: A decreased interest in food, especially during or after physical activity, is a red flag.
Difficulty Sleeping: Restlessness or trouble falling asleep, even after a tiring day, can be a symptom.
Vomiting: This is a more serious symptom and should not be ignored.
Lethargy or Weakness: Unexplained fatigue or a lack of energy, even after adequate rest.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Observe your child’s coordination and balance.
Rapid Breathing or Heart Rate: Even at rest, their breathing or heart rate may be elevated.
Bluish Skin or Lips (Cyanosis): This is a sign of severe altitude sickness and requires immediate medical attention.
Proactive Hydration Strategies
Denver’s dry climate exacerbates the effects of altitude. Dehydration thickens the blood, making it harder for the body to deliver oxygen. Hydration is not just about drinking water; it’s about consistent, strategic fluid intake.
Pre-Hydration: Start hydrating your child before they even begin their activity. Give them water or a sports drink with electrolytes the day before and the morning of.
During Activity: Encourage frequent sips of water or sports drinks. Don’t wait for them to feel thirsty. Set a timer to remind them to drink every 15-20 minutes.
Post-Hydration: Replenish fluids lost during activity. Water is good, but sports drinks with electrolytes help replace sodium and potassium lost through sweat.
Hydration Monitoring: Pay attention to urine color. Pale yellow indicates good hydration, while dark yellow suggests dehydration.
Acclimatization Strategies Specific to Denver
Acclimatization is the process of allowing your body to adjust to the lower oxygen levels at higher altitudes. Gradual ascent is key.
Gradual Ascent: If you’re visiting Denver from a lower altitude, spend a few days at a lower elevation before engaging in strenuous activity. Even staying in Colorado Springs (6,035 feet) for a day or two can help.
Rest and Recovery: Ensure your child gets adequate rest, especially after arriving in Denver. Avoid overexertion during the first few days.
Lower Intensity Activities: Start with light activities like walking or playing in the park before participating in intense sports.
"Climb High, Sleep Low": If possible, have your child participate in activities at higher elevations during the day and sleep at a lower elevation. This isn’t always practical, but even a few hundred feet can make a difference.
Iron Intake: Ensure your child has adequate iron intake. Iron is essential for carrying oxygen in the blood. Consult with your pediatrician about iron supplementation if necessary.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention in Denver
Knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial. Mild altitude sickness can often be managed at home, but severe cases require immediate medical intervention.
Severe Symptoms: If your child experiences severe headache, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, confusion, or loss of coordination, seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms Worsening: If symptoms don’t improve after rest and hydration, or if they worsen, it’s time to see a doctor.
High-Risk Individuals: Children with pre-existing medical conditions, such as asthma or heart problems, are at higher risk for complications from altitude sickness and should be monitored closely.
Local Denver Hospitals and Resources
Knowing where to go in case of an emergency can save valuable time. Here are some reputable hospitals in Denver:
Children’s Hospital Colorado (Anschutz Medical Campus): A leading pediatric hospital with expertise in altitude sickness.
Denver Health Medical Center: A Level I Trauma Center with experience in treating a wide range of medical conditions.
Rose Medical Center: Offers comprehensive medical services, including emergency care.
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls
Many parents unknowingly make mistakes that increase their child’s risk of altitude sickness.
Ignoring Early Symptoms: Dismissing early symptoms as fatigue or a minor illness can lead to more severe complications.
Overexertion: Pushing your child too hard, too soon, can overwhelm their body’s ability to acclimatize.
Insufficient Hydration: Not providing enough fluids, especially during hot weather, can exacerbate the effects of altitude.
Lack of Awareness: Not being aware of the risk factors and symptoms of altitude sickness can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Real-World Scenario: The Soccer Tournament in Aurora
Imagine your child is participating in a soccer tournament in Aurora, Colorado (elevation approximately 5,470 feet). The tournament is scheduled for a weekend in July, with temperatures expected to reach the high 80s. Many of the players are traveling from lower altitudes.
Pre-Tournament Preparation: Encourage players to arrive in Denver at least a day or two before the tournament to begin acclimatizing. Emphasize the importance of pre-hydration in the days leading up to the event.
During the Tournament: Ensure players have access to plenty of water and sports drinks. Schedule frequent breaks for hydration and rest. Monitor players for signs of altitude sickness.
Post-Game Recovery: Encourage players to continue hydrating and resting after each game. Provide nutritious meals and snacks to replenish energy stores.
Emergency Plan: Have a plan in place for dealing with altitude sickness. Know the location of the nearest hospital and have a designated person responsible for seeking medical attention if needed.
By understanding the risks, recognizing the symptoms, and implementing proactive strategies, you can help your child enjoy a safe and healthy summer in Denver. Don’t let altitude sickness steal their joy; be prepared, be vigilant, and be ready to act. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a memorable and healthy summer for your active kids in the Mile High City.