Why do I feel weird in Denver?

Why Denver Might Be Making You Feel Weird

Stepping off the plane and feeling a bit off-kilter is a common experience when visiting the Mile High City. Denver sits at an elevation of 5,280 feet, meaning the air is noticeably thinner than what you are likely used to at sea level.

When you breathe in at this altitude, your body takes in fewer oxygen molecules per breath. If you arrive and immediately jump into heavy activities without letting your body adjust, the sudden shift can catch you off guard. In some cases, this rapid transition causes fluid to accumulate slightly in the brain and lungs, leading to the classic signs of mild altitude sickness—such as headaches, fatigue, and a general sense of feeling weird or lightheaded.

Fortunately, your body is remarkably adaptable. To help shake off that groggy, out-of-sorts feeling, the best approach is to take it easy for your first couple of days, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and limit alcohol until you've fully acclimated to the mountain air.