IV Therapy for Altitude Sickness

What is altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness, which is frequently experienced by people who travel to mountainous areas or partake in activities like hiking, skiing, or climbing above 8,000 feet, is brought on by the lower oxygen levels and decreased air pressure at high altitudes. As their bodies adjust to the new conditions, people traveling from sea level to Wyoming and the nearby regions may experience symptoms of altitude sickness.

What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?

The symptoms of acute mountain sickness are caused by low air pressure and a shortage of oxygen and are associated with high elevation. When someone rapidly ascends to a high altitude without giving their body time to adjust, symptoms frequently appear. Alcohol consumption prior to complete acclimatization as well as illnesses affecting the heart, lungs, or nervous system can all increase the risk of acute mountain sickness.

Symptoms of mild altitude sickness to watch out for include:

  • A persistent headache

  • Difficulty sleeping

  • Dizziness

  • Loss of appetite

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Elevated heart rate

  • Shortness of breath with exertion

Mild altitude sickness symptoms can appear eight to 36 hours after ascending. It's crucial to allow yourself time to acclimate before visiting higher regions of the Rocky Mountains because symptoms can worsen and become more dangerous as you ascend in elevation.

How can IV therapy help with altitude sickness?

You might need to get immediate medical help if you experience severe altitude sickness symptoms like confusion, coughing, or intense fatigue. In mild cases, IV therapy can provide relief while your body adjusts to the change in elevation. For those adjusting to the high elevation of the Casper, WY area, we typically advise our usual altitude sickness IV. Saline is used in the Myers' Cocktail for quick hydration, which reduces discomfort. It also has:

  • B Complex vitamins

  • Vitamin B12

  • Vitamin C

  • Glutathione

  • Magnesium

  • Zinc

Additionally, we advise adding Zofran to your IV to help with altitude sickness. This drug works wonders to stop sickness and treat symptoms like vomiting.

A person backpacking through a hilly landscape

Our Recommendations for Altitude Sickness

We recommend the following IV treatments: ask staff for add ons depending on symptoms

  • Recovery and performance

  • Myers plus