Climbing high altitude peaks requires time to adjust to lack of oxygen.
If you live at sea level, or zero degrees altitude, you enjoy the benefits of atmospheric pressure that helps deliver oxygen into your lungs easily. The higher you climb, however, the less pressure is around you. This drop in pressure makes it more difficult to take in oxygen. Lack of oxygen can lead to altitude sickness, nausea, headaches and other symptoms as well as more serious conditions.
Oxygen in the Atmosphere
The amount of oxygen in the atmosphere remains the same, whether you are at sea level or on top of Everest. The atmosphere holds 21 percent oxygen at any altitude. However, the atmospheric or barometric pressure at the top of Everest is significantly less than it is by the beach. At sea level, the atmospheric pressure is approximately 760 mmHG, which keeps oxygen molecules packed more closely together. This number decreases as your altitude increases; at 12,000 feet above sea level the pressure is 483 mmHG. The less the atmospheric pressure, the farther apart oxygen molecules are, making breathing more difficult.
High Altitude Effects
High altitudes are considered 8,000 to 12,000 feet, while very high altitudes are 12,000 to 18,000. Extremely high altitudes are over 18,000 feet. At 12,000 feet there are 40 percent fewer oxygen molecules in each breath you take, which will increase your breathing rate. You will get more oxygen, but not the same amount you get at sea level, forcing your body to adjust to less oxygen. According to Princeton University, high altitude and lower air pressure causes fluid to leak from your capillaries, potentially building up in your lungs and brain. If you continue to higher altitudes without allowing your body to adjust, or acclimatize, potentially serious, even life-threatening illnesses can result.
2,000 Feet
If you are coming from sea level, or lower, a move to 2,000 feet may require a small adjustment. While sea level's atmospheric pressure is 760 mmHg, the pressure at 2,000 feet is 706.6 mmHg. Even this small difference can have effects on you and other elements. Water's boiling point changes, dropping from 212 degrees to 208 degrees Fahrenheit. You may have to adjust your cooking times and appliances as well as certain ingredients in your recipes. You might feel short of breath if you are exercising or experience headaches and nausea.
The Acclimatization Process
If you feel short of breath or experience a headache at 2,000 feet or any altitude above that in which you live, you might need to adjust to the lack of oxygen. Everyone adjusts differently to altitude, so it is important to pay attention to your body's signs. It generally takes one to three days to acclimatize to any altitude. Drink plenty of water, and do not overexert yourself. Also, avoid alcohol, tobacco and depressant drugs like barbiturates, tranquilizers and sleeping pills. According to Princeton University, these further decrease the respiratory drive during sleep, worsening your symptoms.
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