Santa Fe Seniors: Altitude Thirst Hiding Diabetes?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 10, 2025

The crisp mountain air of Santa Fe, New Mexico, is invigorating, but it can also play tricks on your body. Many seniors moving to or living in Santa Fe often dismiss early diabetes symptoms as simply being a result of the altitude. This can be a dangerous mistake.

The high altitude and dry climate of Santa Fe can easily mask the early warning signs of diabetes, leading to delayed diagnosis and potentially serious health complications. We need to be vigilant.

This article is your guide to understanding this unique challenge and taking proactive steps to protect your health.

Diabetes and altitude sickness share some overlapping symptoms, making it difficult to distinguish between the two, especially for those new to the Santa Fe area. Increased thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue are common to both conditions. The dry air at 7,000 feet exacerbates dehydration, which can mimic the increased thirst and urination associated with high blood sugar.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you differentiate between altitude-related dehydration and potential diabetes symptoms:

Hydration Challenge: Drink 16 ounces of water and monitor your urine output over the next few hours. If your urine returns to a normal color and frequency, and your thirst subsides, it’s likely altitude-related dehydration. If the excessive thirst and frequent urination persist despite adequate hydration, it’s a red flag.
Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including when they occur, how severe they are, and what makes them better or worse. Note if symptoms are worse at certain times of day, or after meals. This information will be invaluable when you consult with your doctor.
At-Home Blood Sugar Testing (If Applicable): If you have a blood glucose meter at home, check your blood sugar levels, especially when you’re experiencing these symptoms. A consistently high reading warrants immediate medical attention. Do not self-diagnose or self-treat based solely on home testing.
Consider a Ketone Test: If your blood sugar is high, check your urine for ketones using an over-the-counter ketone test kit. Ketones in the urine can indicate diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication requiring immediate medical care.
Consult a Santa Fe Physician: It’s crucial to consult a physician familiar with the unique health challenges of living at high altitude. Look for doctors who have experience treating patients with both altitude sickness and diabetes. They can properly assess your symptoms, conduct necessary tests, and provide an accurate diagnosis.

Finding a doctor familiar with altitude-related health issues is key.

Here’s how to find the right physician in Santa Fe:

Ask for Referrals: Ask your primary care physician (if you have one), friends, or neighbors for recommendations.
Check Hospital Affiliations: Look for doctors affiliated with local hospitals like Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center. These hospitals often have specialists experienced in high-altitude medicine.
Read Online Reviews: Check online reviews to see what other patients say about their experiences with different doctors.
Call the Doctor’s Office: Call the doctor’s office and ask if they have experience treating patients with diabetes and altitude-related health issues.

Diabetes prevention is crucial, especially in a high-altitude environment.

Here are some strategies tailored for Santa Fe residents:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. The dry air at high altitude can quickly lead to dehydration, which can exacerbate diabetes symptoms.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Focus on eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity and manage blood sugar levels.
Monitor Your Blood Sugar: If you’re at risk for diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels regularly. This will help you detect any problems early on.
Get Regular Checkups: See your doctor for regular checkups, including blood sugar testing. This is especially important if you have a family history of diabetes or other risk factors.

One common pitfall is attributing all symptoms to altitude and delaying medical care. This can lead to a delayed diagnosis of diabetes and potentially serious health complications.

Another challenge is the lack of awareness among some healthcare providers about the unique challenges of diagnosing diabetes at high altitude. Some doctors may not be familiar with the overlapping symptoms of altitude sickness and diabetes, which can lead to misdiagnosis.

To overcome these challenges, be proactive about your health. Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, monitor your blood sugar levels (if applicable), and consult a physician familiar with altitude-related health issues. Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if you’re not satisfied with your initial diagnosis.

Consider the case of Maria, a 70-year-old woman who moved to Santa Fe from sea level. She initially attributed her increased thirst and frequent urination to the altitude. However, after several weeks, her symptoms persisted despite drinking plenty of water. She eventually consulted a doctor who diagnosed her with type 2 diabetes. Early detection and management allowed Maria to control her blood sugar levels and prevent serious complications.

Another example is John, a 65-year-old man who had been living in Santa Fe for many years. He experienced fatigue and blurred vision, which he initially dismissed as age-related changes. However, his doctor recommended a blood sugar test, which revealed that he had prediabetes. John made lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, and was able to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.

These cases highlight the importance of being aware of the potential for diabetes symptoms to be masked by altitude and taking proactive steps to protect your health.

Living in Santa Fe offers a unique and vibrant lifestyle, but it’s essential to be aware of the potential health challenges associated with high altitude. By understanding the overlapping symptoms of altitude sickness and diabetes, and by taking proactive steps to prevent and manage diabetes, you can enjoy a healthy and fulfilling life in the City Different. Don’t let the altitude fool you; listen to your body and seek medical attention when needed.