**Santa Fe Saunas: Are Electrolytes Masking Altitude Sickness?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe dry air hits you first, then the scent of piñon smoke. You’re in Santa Fe, New Mexico, a city perched high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Maybe you’re here for the art, the history, or perhaps the burgeoning wellness scene, complete with its ubiquitous saunas. But before you bliss out in that cedar-lined box, consider this: that post-sauna glow might be masking something more sinister than just dehydration. It could be the early stages of altitude sickness, a real threat at 7,200 feet.
Santa Fe’s altitude presents a unique challenge. Many visitors, and even some residents, underestimate its effects. Add in the dehydrating effects of a sauna, coupled with the well-intentioned but potentially misleading advice to “hydrate with electrolytes,” and you’ve got a recipe for confusion. Are you just thirsty, or are you developing Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)?
Let’s break down why this is a problem. Saunas, popular in Santa Fe spas and even some hotels, cause significant fluid loss through sweat. This loss is often addressed with electrolyte-rich drinks, which can alleviate some symptoms like muscle cramps and fatigue. However, these drinks can also mask the early warning signs of AMS, such as headache, nausea, and dizziness. You might attribute these symptoms to the sauna and dehydration, down another electrolyte drink, and unknowingly push yourself further into altitude sickness.
Here’s a “How-To” guide to differentiating between heat stress/dehydration and altitude sickness in Santa Fe:
Know the Baseline: Before even considering a sauna, assess how you feel at altitude. Have you just arrived? Are you experiencing any headache, fatigue, or shortness of breath? If so, delay the sauna. Acclimatize first. The Santa Fe Oxygen & Recovery Bar on Galisteo Street offers oxygen therapy, a proven method to help your body adjust. They can also provide personalized acclimatization advice.
Monitor Your Symptoms: Pay close attention to your body during and after the sauna. Dehydration symptoms include thirst, dry mouth, dark urine, and decreased urination. AMS symptoms, on the other hand, include a persistent headache that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relievers, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping.
The "Loperamide Test": This is a trick I learned from a local physician. If you’re experiencing nausea, take a small dose of loperamide (Imodium). If the nausea subsides, it’s likely related to dehydration or something you ate. If it persists or worsens, altitude sickness is a more probable culprit. Consult a doctor before using any medication.
The “Rest and Rehydrate” Test: If you’re unsure, stop the sauna, rest, and rehydrate with plain water. Electrolyte drinks are fine in moderation, but don’t overdo them. If your symptoms improve significantly with rest and water alone, it was likely dehydration. If they persist or worsen, seek medical attention.
Check Your Oxygen Saturation: Consider purchasing a pulse oximeter. A healthy oxygen saturation level at sea level is typically between 95-100%. In Santa Fe, expect a slightly lower reading, perhaps in the low 90s. A significant drop after sauna use, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, is a red flag for altitude sickness.
Now, let’s address some common pitfalls and mistakes:
Over-reliance on Electrolytes: As mentioned earlier, electrolytes are helpful for dehydration, but they won’t cure altitude sickness. They can mask symptoms, leading to a false sense of security.
Ignoring Subtle Symptoms: Don’t dismiss a mild headache or slight dizziness as “just being tired.” These can be early warning signs of AMS.
Pushing Through: This is perhaps the biggest mistake. If you’re feeling unwell at altitude, stop what you’re doing and descend if possible. Don’t try to tough it out.
Assuming You’re Immune: Just because you’ve been to high altitude before doesn’t mean you’re immune to altitude sickness. Your body’s response can vary depending on factors like your hydration level, physical exertion, and overall health.
Not Acclimatizing Properly: Arriving in Santa Fe and immediately hitting the slopes or the sauna is a recipe for disaster. Spend a few days acclimatizing before engaging in strenuous activities.
Here are some New Mexico-specific strategies for safe sauna use at high altitude:
Consult a Local Physician: Before using a sauna, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions, consult a doctor familiar with altitude sickness. Many physicians in Santa Fe specialize in altitude-related illnesses.
Choose a Reputable Spa: Opt for spas that are aware of the risks of altitude sickness and have protocols in place to address them. Ask about their emergency procedures and whether they have oxygen available.
Hydrate Strategically: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after sauna use. Avoid sugary drinks, which can worsen dehydration.
Listen to Your Body: This is the most important advice. If you’re feeling unwell, stop the sauna immediately and seek medical attention.
Consider Oxygen Therapy: As mentioned earlier, the Santa Fe Oxygen & Recovery Bar is a valuable resource. Oxygen therapy can help you acclimatize to the altitude and alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
The key takeaway is this: be aware of the potential risks of sauna use at high altitude, especially in a place like Santa Fe where altitude sickness is a common concern. Don’t let the allure of wellness obscure the importance of listening to your body and seeking medical attention when needed. By understanding the subtle differences between dehydration, heat stress, and altitude sickness, you can enjoy the benefits of a Santa Fe sauna without jeopardizing your health. Remember, a little awareness can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the “City Different.”