Frequently Asked Questions About Altitude Sickness and Oxygen Rentals
Altitude Sickness
Common symptoms of Altitude Sickness are:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Difficulty Sleeping
- Vomiting
- Loss of Appetite
- Fatigue / Tiredness
- Rapid Pulse
- Shortness of Breath
- Diarrhea
Altitude sickness feels like a bad hangover or a case of the flu without the sore throat or cough. If you are not sure what is making you feel bad it’s most likely altitude sickness.
- Living below 3,300feet
- Fast rate of ascent to altitude
- Past History of Altitude Sickness
- Physical Exertion at Altitude
- Pre-existing respiratory condition
- Genetics
We provide Oxygen Rentals to all of Colorado’s major ski resorts, including Aspen, Snowmass, Buttermilk, Aspen Highlands, Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper, Vail, Beaver Creek, Telluride, Steamboat Springs, and Crested Butte.
Believe it or not, 40% of visitors will have some symptoms of Altitude Sickness when visiting the mountains of Colorado.
Typically symptoms for Altitude Sickness can appear anywhere from immediately upon arrival to 1-3 days after arrival at altitude here in the mountains of Colorado.
Absolutely! Altitude Sickness can set in quickly and can take days to recover from, even with supplemental oxygen. It is always best to use oxygen as soon as they arrive.
There is no way of knowing. Altitude Sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness, can affect anyone at any time, regardless of age or physical condition. Better safe than sick!
Yes and no. “You can’t live without oxygen!” Using supplemental oxygen is not going to force you to want to be on it all the time unless you have a medical condition that requires it.
It is best to use supplemental oxygen as soon as you arrive at your high-altitude destination for 20 minutes or more when you sleep and as symptoms dictate. In other words, “If you are feeling bad, use the oxygen.” In most cases, patients sleep with oxygen, then go skiing or hiking the next day and, after a while, may start to feel the effects of high altitude again. They just go back and use the oxygen until they feel better, repeating this process until the end of their visit, and they descend. Sometimes 20 minutes is all they need. High Altitude Sickness can return even after a couple of days of use. It is not wise to use supplemental oxygen for a while and then hope for the best.
Not at high altitudes. Oxygen poisoning or toxicity is unheard of when using concentrators; they only produce “at the most 95% oxygen” and have never been known to harm anyone with normal use. Concentrators are the safest way to receive supplemental oxygen.
Yes, and in most cases, without any additional charge.
If you drink a cup of coffee every day at home, then you should continue drinking coffee at altitude. Caffeine is proven to prevent headaches if you use it regularly. Stopping your caffeine intake at altitude will most likely result in Caffeine withdrawal and can aggravate altitude sickness. If you are not a coffee drinker – DO NOT START at altitude.
A non-rebreathing mask is a mask that goes over your nose and mouth and has a bag attached. The concentrator fills the bag with oxygen, and you breathe it in. When you exhale, you do so through two valves on top of the mask while another valve closes, and the concentrator refills the bag. The purpose is to receive a high dose of oxygen without rebreathing the exhaled carbon dioxide. This method is preferred for most Emergency Medical Personnel and with performers that just want a “quick hit” before going on stage.
Nasal cannulas are small nasal prongs with a hose that fits in your nose and wrap around your ears. They are lighter than masks and allow for more comfort and better mobility for longer periods of oxygen therapy, such as when you are sleeping. Until recently, delivering high concentrations of oxygen through nasal cannulas was not possible. We now offer high-flow nasal cannulas in lengths up to 50 feet, so the patient can get the oxygen they need and be mobile.
We will give you both a mask and a cannula in seven-foot lengths with your rental. Longer lengths can be purchased separately.
Yes. We carry pediatric masks and nasal cannulas.
Yes, if you rent a unit for a week and decide you want to purchase one, we will apply the rental cost to the purchase price.
Yes, Click Here to View the Oxygen Concentrator Instructions.
If you require more oxygen or a higher flow rate during your stay, simply call us. We’ll arrange additional equipment or a larger concentrator right away. Our technicians can deliver replacements quickly so you always have the oxygen support you need.
Oxygen Rentals
Yes, and in most cases, without any additional charge.
Sleep Apnea is becoming more and more diagnosed and requires a CPAP machine that helps individuals to breathe better when they sleep. Since there is a mask for the nose or mouth or both, we found a way to attach our concentrators to the machines with a pressure line adapter. This gives you the best of both worlds.
Yes, if you rent a unit for a week and decide you want to purchase one, we will apply the rental cost to the purchase price.
Yes, Click Here to View the Oxygen Concentrator Instructions.
Yes - an oxygen concentrator can be used on pets with the air of a pet oxygen mask or cage. Just like humans, pets can be sensitive to high elevation, and supplemental oxygen may help alleviate certain symptoms.
Renting an oxygen concentrator is simple. Call or book online. We’ll confirm availability and deliver the unit to your location. No long forms or waiting—just convenient when you arrive in the mountains.
Each rental includes a medical-grade oxygen concentrator with appropriate accessories, setup instructions, and phone support. Our team ensures you receive everything needed for safe and comfortable use during your stay, so you can breathe easier and enjoy your time at higher altitudes.
We offer fast delivery for most Colorado mountain areas. Once you place your order, a technician confirms your address and delivers directly to your home, hotel, or vacation rental. Many deliveries are completed within a few hours, depending on location and availability.
Yes, Alpine Oxygen provides same-day delivery in most service areas. For urgent needs, call us directly—our team often accommodates evening deliveries to ensure you receive oxygen as soon as possible.
You can rent an oxygen concentrator for as long as you need—whether a single night or multiple weeks. We’ll adjust the rental duration based on your travel plans, and you can easily extend your rental anytime by contacting our support team before your scheduled pickup.
If you require more oxygen or a higher flow rate during your stay, simply call us. We’ll arrange additional equipment or a larger concentrator right away. Our technicians can deliver replacements quickly so you always have the oxygen support you need.
Absolutely. We frequently deliver to hotels, condos, private homes, and vacation rentals across Colorado ski towns. Just provide your lodging name when booking. Our team coordinates directly with front desks or property managers to ensure smooth, on-time delivery.
Yes, we typically require a two-night minimum rental for oxygen concentrators. Longer stays receive discounted rates. Whether you’re in town for a weekend getaway or an extended ski trip, we tailor the rental duration to fit your visit perfectly. Please inquire for your special needs.
Yes, extending your rental is easy. Simply contact us before your pickup date, and we’ll update your schedule and billing. Many visitors choose to extend after experiencing improved comfort at altitude—just let us know, and we’ll handle the rest.
After confirming your order, you’ll receive delivery updates by email or text. We prioritize timely communication so you know exactly when to expect your oxygen concentrator.
Yes, Alpine Oxygen can supply concentrators for private events or gatherings. Ask about our Oxygen Bars. We deliver and video instructions will be provided for the safe use of our oxygen concentrators. This ensures everyone needing oxygen receives consistent support while maintaining a safe environment during social or recreational events.
If your concentrator stops functioning, please contact us for proper troubleshooting. Our technicians provide troubleshooting assistance.
Yes, if convenient, you can pick up units directly from our facility. Pre-arrange pickup times to ensure your concentrator is ready, sanitized, and fully set up before leaving, saving delivery time and cost.
Some insurance plans may cover oxygen rentals. We don't submit with your insurance please contact your provider to confirm coverage.