April 2, 2010, Newsletter Issue #176: Taking The High Road

Tip of the Week

Before your trip:

Plan your itinerary so that you can acclimatize slowly to the high elevation, by ascending over two or more days. Even if you are attending only the NIPS workshops, not the main conference, consider spending a night in Denver before coming up to Breckenridge. (Shuttle transportation is available from the main conference site in Denver to the workshops in Breckenridge.)
Be sure to bring mild analgesics (ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen) for headaches or discomfort.
If you cannot avoid going from low altitude to Breckenridge in one day, or if you already know you are susceptible to altitude sickness, ask your physician for a prescription for the carbonic anhydrase inhibitor acetazolamide (Diamox). This medication accelerates acclimatization by increasing excretion of bicarbonates, re-acidifying the blood, and stimulating respiration. (For contraindications and information on possible side effects, see the drug database links below and consult your pharmacist or physician.)
During your trip:
Limit strenuous activity on your first day in Breckenridge.
Drink lots of water, and eat light high-carbohydrate meals.
Avoid alcohol and sleeping medications

This tip is brought to you by: AltitudeSickness

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