Why Oxygen Therapy Matters at High Altitude

What are the Benefits of Medical-Grade Oxygen in Colorado’s High Country

Breckenridge, Vail, Keystone, and other Colorado mountain towns are known for their breathtaking beauty — and their thin air. At elevations above 8,000 feet, oxygen levels drop significantly compared to sea level. For many visitors, this can result in fatigue, headaches, poor sleep, and even altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS).

Oxygen therapy is one of the fastest and most effective ways to restore balance, improve comfort, and make the most of your mountain stay. At AlpinAire Healthcare, we provide safe, medical-grade oxygen for both short-term visitors and long-term residents of Summit County, Eagle County, and surrounding areas.

person skiing at the top of a Colorado Mountain

How Does Oxygen Work in the Body?

Oxygen fuels every cell in your body. It plays a critical role in:

Energy production – supporting stamina for skiing, hiking, and other activities.
Brain function – improving focus, mood, and sleep quality.
Muscle recovery – reducing soreness and speeding up healing after exercise. Overall wellness – supporting the heart, lungs, and immune system.

When oxygen levels are lower at high altitude, your body must work harder to function, often leaving you tired, short of breath, or unable to sleep well.

Why Do Oxygen Levels Drop at Elevation?

At 9,000–12,000 feet (the altitude of many Colorado ski towns), the air contains 25–30% less oxygen than at sea level. For travelers arriving from lower elevations, this sudden change can overwhelm the body. Supplemental oxygen restores normal oxygen levels in the bloodstream, helping you adjust more quickly and comfortably.

What are the Oxygen Therapy Benefits?

Oxygen therapy at high altitude provides fast relief for common altitude-related issues:

Relieves symptoms of altitude sickness – headache, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness.
Improves sleep quality – helps you fall asleep and stay asleep.
Boosts energy levels – so you can ski, hike, or bike longer.
Aids athletic recovery – speeds up muscle repair after physical exertion.
Enhances overall well-being – reduces stress on your heart and lungs.

Many visitors also use oxygen proactively to prevent altitude illness and feel better during their stay.

What is the Difference Between Medical-Grade Oxygen vs. Recreational Oxygen?

It’s important to know the difference between medical-grade oxygen and recreational oxygen canisters sold in stores:

Medical-grade oxygen is FDA-regulated, 90% pure, and dispensed by prescription.
Recreational oxygen is not tested to medical standards, varies in purity, and is not intended for treating health conditions.

At AlpinAire, we provide safe, prescription oxygen therapy, ensuring your treatment is effective and tailored to your medical needs.

Wife hugging her husband in a wheelchair with an oxygen tube and tank

Oxygen Therapy in Summit County and Beyond

AlpinAire delivers oxygen equipment directly to your home, condo, hotel, or vacation rental in:

Breckenridge
Keystone
Copper Mountain
Frisco
Vail
Beaver Creek
Avon
Leadville and nearby mountain towns

Our trained technicians set up the equipment, explain how to use it, and are available for 24/7 support if you need assistance.

Why Choose AlpinAire?

Accredited provider: Meeting strict FDA and Medicare standards.
Wide insurance acceptance: Including Medicare, Medicaid, Blue Cross Blue Shield, UMR, and more.
Local expertise: Serving the Colorado high country for decades.
Fast, reliable delivery: Same-day oxygen delivery available.

Breathe Easier, Safely with AlpinAire

Whether you’re recovering from altitude sickness, preparing for a ski trip, or want to feel your best at high elevation, oxygen therapy can make all the difference.

📞 Call AlpinAire today at (970) 453-8423 to learn more about the benefits of oxygen therapy or request same-day delivery of medical-grade oxygen equipment.