High-altitude headache: Insights into pathophysiology and potential treatment implications - PubMed
2 hours ago
- #hypoxia
- #altitude sickness
- #headache research
- High-altitude headache (HAH) is the most common neurological issue from hypoxia above 2500 m, often linked to acute mountain sickness (AMS).
- HAH resembles migraines and cluster headaches, making diagnosis challenging; prevalence varies with ascent speed and altitude.
- Pathophysiology involves trigeminovascular system activation, with mediators like nitric oxide, CGRP, and PACAP playing key roles.
- Hypoxia stabilizes HIF-1α, inducing changes that prime pathways for head pain; barometric pressure fluctuations also contribute.
- Treatment typically includes analgesics and oxygen, but targeted therapies against CGRP and PACAP may offer additional benefits.