Good Afternoon. That would really depend on the person meaning you. High altitude can make COPD symptoms worse. Just remember that "One size doesn't Fit all" You really should be asking your doctor this question and not anyone on here. At higher elevations, your body needs to work harder to take in the same amount of oxygen as it does at elevations closer to sea level. This strains your lungs and makes it harder to breathe.

I am one of those patients that high altitudes does affect. And i have read where: Being exposed to high-altitude conditions for more than several days can also affect the heart and kidneys. Depending on the severity of your COPD symptoms, you may need to supplement your breathing with oxygen at high elevations, particularly above 5,000 feet. This can help prevent oxygen deficiency.

Before you travel, it’s important to meet with your doctor to discuss how your trip may impact your COPD symptoms. Your doctor can further explain altitude sickness, how it might affect your breathing, and how you can be better prepared.

They may tell you to take additional medications or to bring supplemental oxygen with you during your travels.

If you’re concerned by how your COPD symptoms could become aggravated by high-altitude conditions, ask your doctor to do a high-altitude hypoxia measurement. This test will evaluate your breathing at oxygen levels that are simulated to resemble those at higher elevations.

@A MyCOPDTeam Member My pulmonologist doesn't discuss these kinds of things and I was just asking people's opinions if they have any experience with it. Her suggestion was that I drive to Lake Tahoe and see how it goes, but thanks. Tahoe is 6224', so a good test.

I am on 02 24/7 so already predisposed to have issues breathing at higher altitudes, but a peak of 4310ft isn't nearly as high as over 7K. I was wrong providing info asking my question!

4/26/2024

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I drove From Oregon to Pennsylvania and back. 3x Wyoming....oh Wyoming... the first time I couldnt figure out why I was struggling. Then I saw the elevation. Yikes! I just took slower longer breaths and my breath out was with pursed lips. Just slow and steady And got over those tough spots asap. I never felt Panic or anything. But its a def. Tightening. I think i might have had real concerns if I didn't have oxygen.

I'll add my two bits: Take O2 with you -- a small tank or a portable concentrator that goes up to at least 4 l/m. I live at a little over 2000 ft. and am on O2 24/7 at 4. Just 15 minutes without it, and my blood concentration drops significantly. Don't plan on hiking at any of those altitudes! Have a super trip. Sandy

@A MyCOPDTeam Member Just like flying when they pressurize the cabin around 5-8 thousand feet we need supplemental o2

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