How to Breathe Thin Air

A common misconception about air in high altitudes is that it is thinner, or contains lower concentration of oxygen, than the air at sea level. In fact, the percentage of oxygen remains the same at sea level and at high altitudes: What changes is the barometric pressure, which drops from 760 mmHg at sea level to 483 mmHg at 12,000 feet. This inhibits the ability of the lungs to take in air. Not being properly prepared to breathe at higher altitudes may lead to altitude sickness, loss of consciousness or death. There are however, simple measures you may take to properly acclimatize to the barometric pressure.

Instructions

    • 1

      Take your time. The main reason people find it difficult to breathe at higher altitudes, is that they have gone up too high, too fast. The body needs time to adjust. Only ascend about 1,000 feet per day.

    • 2

      Drink plenty of fluids. Getting accustomed to higher altitudes may result in fluid loss.

    • 3

      Refrain from exerting your body, as it gets used to the higher altitudes. Instead, slowly increase activity each day.

    • 4

      Refrain from ingesting anything that may inhibit the intake of air, as it will only worsen your experience while adjusting to the high altitude. This includes alcohol, tobacco, and sleeping pills. These substances and others like them slow down breathing.

    • 5

      Take more frequent breaths. The low pressure in high altitudes means your lungs are incapable of fully expanding and taking in enough oxygen. Breathing faster helps to take in more oxygen while your body becomes accustomed to higher altitudes.