Altitude Climbing Anxiety

[Starfish]

Thanks, everyone, for a bunch of good tips and great support. Most all of it makes a lot of sense, and I appreciate your responses! I have been absolutely swilling water (and have my electrolyte tabs for the ride), trying to eat well, saying "no" to any wine with dinner, and keeping the caffeine to one morning cup of coffee. Haven't been on my bike for a few days, but I'm going out tomorrow morning for an easy ride (which is as hard, or harder to find around here than where I'm from!).

I am feeling better tonight, although still head-achey and my guts are a little uneasy. Although I have not worked out hard at any altitude to speak of, I have travelled a lot to altitude, so I know that what I was/am feeling is related to altitude, not just nerves. It is a very recognizable feeling in my head and my whole cardio system, as strange as that sounds. And, believe it or not, I feel mild symptoms on climbs from sea level, even after just about 3500 feet, right at home in my own back yard under relaxed circumstances.

(But then, as a human research subject at the UW, I also learned that my autonomic nervous system reacts to a variety of stimuli differently than many others' do; and, my surgeon and dentist both know I need about double the pain meds that many of their patients do. Call it in my head, or not, but I seem to be a little sensitive. Based on the research experiments, I don't think it is all in my head, although I absolutely know how amazing the mind/body connection is.)

I went out and drove 2 of the 3 climbs today. The good news is that the routes are beautiful, and the final climb up Mt. Shasta is gorgeous, with a great road. But, these are going to be tough, unrelenting climbs for me. I think they are steeper than my Hurricane Ridge route. However, I am reading a lot of great inspirational stuff this week! In fact, next week I will post a book review.

Thanks again, everybody. I currently don't have anyone in real life who really supports me knowledgeably as a cyclist...just well-meaning friends. This forum is so wonderful. Thank you. Edit: Oops! Haha...I just realized I implied you are not all actually real-life people but imaginary friends! Sorry! I think I have spent too much time alone this week! Gads.