Altitude sickness, also referred to as hypoxia, is caused when you go to a place of high altitude where the oxygen content of the air is low and your body is not able to take in enough oxygen for its needs. This oxygen deprivation, can cause a number of symptoms, including:

• Lack of appetite, nausea, or vomiting

• Fatigue or weakness

• Dizziness or light-headedness

• Insomnia

• Pins and needles

• Shortness of breath upon exertion

• Persistent rapid pulse

• Drowsiness

• General malaise 

Altitude sickness can hit anyone, regardless of fitness level or lung capacity. It can last up to 2 days. After that time, your body will normally acclimate to the high altitude and your symptoms will subside.

If you don't want to wait for your body to naturally acclimate, oxygen enrichment is your best option. It can ease the symptoms associated with altitude sickness quickly by providing your body with the oxygen it is lacking to function properly.

The next time you plan on going to a place of high altitude, whether it be for skiing, mountaineering, hiking, or any other reason, make sure to take some recreational canned oxygen along just in case.

Note: Recreational oxygen is NOT for use in medical emergencies.