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The spectacle of towering mountains, clear skies, and alpine air can make for an idyllic destination, but for many travelers it also brings the potential for altitude sickness and headaches. Bend, Oregon, and its surrounding area are tucked away in the high desert, with altitudes ranging from 3,600 to 11,000 feet. As a consequence of the beautiful vistas, some visitors may find themselves dealing with the effects of high altitudes.

What is Altitude Sickness and Why Does It Happen?

Altitude sickness is a group of symptoms that occur when the body is affected by a decrease in the atmospheric pressure due to an increase in elevation. Some common symptoms include headache, light-headedness, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, muscle cramps, and dizziness. Symptoms can appear within hours of reaching higher altitudes and can last for days depending on the individual’s susceptibility. Accuracy of diagnosis is quite difficult, as symptoms can closely resemble other illnesses. Incidents of altitude sickness have been widely documented in the mountains and high plains of Oregon Valley, with some visitors realizing symptoms even in lower-elevation regions like Bend itself.

The underlying mechanisms of altitude sickness remain somewhat unclear, but the condition has been linked to multiple factors. As air pressure and therefore oxygen levels decrease at higher altitudes, an individual’s ability to efficiently use oxygen also decreases. This can cause hypoxia, a condition stemming from reduced oxygen levels in the body, which may lead to symptoms more closely associated with altitude sickness. Other contributing factors may include dehydration, low humidity, increased ultraviolet radiation exposure, and physical exertion.

Minimizing the Effects of Altitude Sickness and Headaches

Travelers planning a visit to Bend or any other high-elevation destination can minimize the effects of altitude sickness and headaches with a few key strategies:

Acclimate. Upon arrival, it’s important to let the body acclimate to the new altitude. Take it easy for the first few days, and try not to exert oneself too much. If possible, try to gradually ascend to higher elevations over the course of a few days.

Stay Hydrated. Staying well-hydrated is another important way to help minimize the effects of altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water — at least one gallon per day — to help keep the body hydrated and to replace fluids lost to increased breathing and sweating at higher elevations.

Consume Enough Calories. The body needs more fuel when at higher elevations, so it’s important to eat enough to keep energy levels up. Include plenty of healthy carbohydrates and simple sugars to provide enough energy for physical exertion.

Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine. Both alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate the body and can exacerbate symptoms of altitude sickness. Limiting or avoiding these substances altogether is a good idea while traveling to higher elevations.

Get Plenty of Rest. Adequate rest is crucial for the body to adjust to the changes in altitude, so be sure to get plenty of rest and to take it easy while traveling to higher elevations.

Headache Remedies

In addition to altitude sickness, some travelers may also experience headaches while in Bend. Headaches can be the result of a variety of factors, from stress to physical exertion to dehydration. Fortunately, there are a few remedies that may help calm a headache even in the midst of a getaway:

Stay Hydrated. As previously mentioned, keeping oneself well-hydrated is an important way to minimize symptoms of altitude sickness. It can also help to alleviate headaches.

Relax and Unwind. Sometimes, all it takes is a nice long soak in a hot bath or a few moments of quiet meditation to calm a headache.

Over-the-Counter Medications. Over-the-counter analgesics such as aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen are a great way to manage the pain of a headache.

See a Doctor. If headaches are severe or just won’t go away, it’s a good idea to see a doctor to get an official diagnosis and to discuss treatment options.

The Benefits of a Trip to Bend, Oregon

Despite the potential for altitude sickness and headaches, Bend and its surrounding region offer many benefits. The area boasts some truly stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from hiking and mountain biking to skiing and horseback riding. For those looking to explore the area without the fear of altitude sickness, consider booking accommodations at a lower elevation. Regardless of how one chooses to explore the area, Bend, Oregon is an unforgettable destination with a variety of experiences to offer.