My 16 Month Old and Altitude

Well, from my experience flying and such it is easier for baby baby to adjust when eating. The chewing, swollowing and sucking actions actually help pop your ears (you can do just one to get the pop not all three are always needed.). Just give your darling a snack and water or something like that. The reason that chewing, swollowing and sucking actions help pop ones ears is because babies inner ears and eustachian tubes are not fully developed (this is the reason kids get ear infections too!) and those actions force a harmless and painless pressure change in the inner ear. From my experience a child that has few ear infections has little to no trouble with altitudes.

If you plan to bring him hiking with you, wait between 24 to 48 hours after you arrive to allow his body to adjust. You might want to wait that period before doing ANY physical activity that would keep you out for a while. Other than that, he should be fine if he isn't prone to frequent ear infections.

the only thing I can think of it that it may cause the baby's ears to feel like they are clogged not sure why but swallowing always seems to help that so maybe make sure you have snacks and plenty to drink.

M.
My family goes to Estes Park, Co. every year. Both my youngest children have always done just fine. Even my 3 year old who was born with a mild heart condition. Her 1st trip to the Rocky Mtns. was when she was 3 months old. And we flew to Denver on that trip. I was the one to get worn out more that the kids! My one little bit of advice is drink lots of water it helps!
If I can answer any more ?s just let me know!
S.

I don't know about how your 16 month old will do with the altitude, but as for me I still can't adjust and I am completely miserable for days after a trip to Colorado. Because of this, I won't take my daughter to the mountains, if I'm miserable I can't take care of her. All I can say is this, yawning always pops my ears and he probably won't make the connection fast enough to stop himself from yawning. So I think as long as he is yawning his ears will probably adjust. Good luck!

Hi M.,

It is usually easier for babies than for adults to adjust but it wouldn't hurt to call your doctor/nurse and ask for any recommendations before the trip, just for your own peace.

Have a great time!

Mariana Abadie
www.MyKidsFirst.com