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Reverse association between high-altitude headache and nasal congestion
S Jafarian1, F Gorouhi, J Lotfi
1Department of Neurology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Shariati Hospital, Tehran, Iran.
Cephalalgia : an International Journal of Headache
|June 27, 2007
Summary
High altitude exposure can cause headaches, but surprisingly, it is linked to less nasal congestion. This study found a reverse association between altitude headaches and nasal congestion in adults.
Area of Science:
- Altitude Medicine
- Physiology
- Respiratory System
Background:
- Nasal congestion is not a recognized symptom of high altitude exposure or hypoxia.
- Both nasal congestion and high-altitude headache share vasogenic properties, suggesting a potential link.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between nasal congestion and high-altitude headache.
- To determine if these two symptoms occur together or in opposition.
Main Methods:
- A prospective observational study involving 118 adults at 3450 m.
- Interviews conducted 24 hours post-ascent to assess symptoms of acute mountain sickness (headache) and nasal congestion.
Main Results:
- Headache was reported by 55.9% of individuals within 24 hours of ascent.
- Nasal congestion was reported by 28.8% of individuals.
- A statistically significant reverse association was found between headache and nasal congestion (P < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- High-altitude headache and nasal congestion exhibit a reverse association.
- This inverse relationship may be due to conflicting autoregulation effects or heightened sympathetic activity.
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