This information is intended to be educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. You should consult your physician regarding any specific medical conditions or questions and before taking any medications.
Acclimatization is the process of the body adjusting to the decreasing availability of oxygen.
It is a slow process, taking place over a period of days. One must work harder to obtain oxygen, primarily by breathing faster. This is particularly noticeable with exertion, such as walking uphill. Being out of breath with exertion is normal, as long as the sensation of shortness of breath resolves rapidly with rest. As the amount of oxygen in the lungs decreases, the blood becomes less and less efficient at acquiring and transporting oxygen .