**Taos Sleep: Altitude AC Hiding Summer Oxygen Dips?**
By Franklin Everett ShawImagine waking up in Taos, New Mexico, the crisp mountain air filling your lungs, only to find yourself gasping for breath. It’s not a nightmare; it’s a real possibility for many who live in or visit this high-altitude haven, especially during the summer months. The combination of thin air and the allure of cool air conditioning can create a perfect storm for oxygen desaturation during sleep. Let’s dive into how to navigate this challenge and ensure you get the restful sleep you deserve.
Taos sits at a breathtaking 6,969 feet above sea level. This altitude means less oxygen is available in each breath you take. Your body typically adjusts over time, but this acclimatization process can be disrupted.
Air conditioning, while a welcome relief from the New Mexico sun, can exacerbate the problem. AC units cool the air, but they also dry it out. Dry air irritates the nasal passages and lungs, potentially leading to inflammation and reduced oxygen absorption.
The double whammy of high altitude and dry air can lead to nocturnal oxygen desaturation – a drop in your blood oxygen levels while you sleep. This can manifest as:
- Headaches upon waking
- Fatigue, even after a full night’s sleep
- Difficulty concentrating
- Shortness of breath
So, what can you do to combat this? Let’s break it down into actionable steps.
First, optimize your air conditioning usage. Don’t blast the AC all night long. Instead, consider using a timer to turn it off a few hours before you wake up. Aim for a temperature that’s comfortably cool, not frigid. A good starting point is 72-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
A common mistake is setting the AC too low, thinking it will cool the room faster. This only leads to excessive dryness and a higher energy bill. Instead, use fans in conjunction with the AC to circulate the cool air more effectively.
Next, combat the dryness. A humidifier is your best friend in Taos during the summer. Place a humidifier in your bedroom to add moisture back into the air. Aim for a humidity level between 30-50%.
Don’t rely solely on the humidifier’s built-in sensor. Use a separate hygrometer to accurately measure the humidity level in your room. Over-humidifying can lead to mold growth, which is another health hazard.
Consider supplemental oxygen. If you’re experiencing significant symptoms of oxygen desaturation, talk to your doctor about using supplemental oxygen at night. This is particularly important for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
You can rent or purchase oxygen concentrators from medical supply stores in Taos. Be sure to get a prescription from your doctor before using supplemental oxygen. Improper use can be harmful.
Explore sleep apnea testing. High altitude can increase the risk of sleep apnea, a condition where you repeatedly stop and start breathing during sleep. If you suspect you might have sleep apnea, get tested.
Several clinics in Taos offer sleep studies. Holy Cross Medical Center has a sleep lab. Additionally, you can find independent sleep specialists in the area.
Don’t delay getting tested if you suspect sleep apnea. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease and stroke.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to optimizing your sleep environment in Taos:
- Consult your doctor: Discuss your symptoms and any pre-existing conditions.
- Adjust your AC: Set the temperature to 72-75 degrees and use a timer.
- Humidify: Place a humidifier in your bedroom and monitor the humidity level.
- Consider oxygen: Talk to your doctor about supplemental oxygen if needed.
- Get tested: If you suspect sleep apnea, schedule a sleep study.
A real-world example: Maria, a resident of Taos for 10 years, struggled with fatigue and headaches every summer. She initially attributed it to allergies. After consulting her doctor, she discovered she had mild sleep apnea exacerbated by the dry air from her AC. With a CPAP machine and a humidifier, Maria now sleeps soundly and wakes up feeling refreshed.
Another challenge is altitude sickness. Even if you’re a long-term resident, you can still experience altitude sickness, especially if you’ve recently traveled to a lower altitude and returned to Taos. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and take it easy for the first few days after returning.
A common pitfall is ignoring the symptoms. Many people dismiss the symptoms of oxygen desaturation as just being tired or stressed. Don’t ignore persistent symptoms. Seek medical advice.
Remember, your health is paramount. Don’t let the allure of cool air compromise your well-being. By taking proactive steps to optimize your sleep environment, you can enjoy the beauty of Taos without sacrificing a good night’s rest.
Finally, consider your bedding. Use breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to help regulate your body temperature. Avoid synthetic materials that can trap heat and moisture.
By implementing these strategies, you can mitigate the potential for oxygen desaturation and enjoy restful, healthy sleep in the beautiful high-altitude environment of Taos, New Mexico. Sweet dreams!