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High-altitude headache
Michael J Marmura1, Pablo Bandres Hernandez
1Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA, michael.marmura@jefferson.edu.
Current Pain and Headache Reports
|March 22, 2015
Summary
High-altitude headache, a neurological symptom, stems from cellular hypoxia at increased altitudes. This review explores its causes, prevention, and treatment for all mountaineers.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Altitude Medicine
- Physiology
Background:
- High-altitude headache is a common neurological symptom during ascent.
- Cellular hypoxia from reduced barometric pressure is the primary cause.
- Individual susceptibility is influenced by genetics, migraine history, and acclimatization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology of acute mountain sickness and high-altitude headache.
- To summarize evidence for pharmacological and device-based prevention and treatment.
- To differentiate high-altitude headache from other headache disorders.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on altitude-related neurological symptoms.
- Synthesis of data on pathophysiology, risk factors, and treatment efficacy.
- Comparative analysis of high-altitude headache with mimicking conditions.
Main Results:
- Cellular hypoxia is the central mechanism for altitude-induced headaches.
- Acclimatization, genetics, and migraine history affect headache susceptibility.
- Various drugs and devices show potential for prevention and treatment.
Conclusions:
- Understanding high-altitude headache pathophysiology is crucial for effective management.
- Tailored prevention and treatment strategies are needed for mountaineers.
- Distinguishing from other headaches aids accurate diagnosis and care.
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