Headache at the back of the head after high altitude reaction

Jun 06, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Jun

Introduction

High altitude reaction, commonly known as "high altitude sickness," often causes pain at the back of the head. This headache is usually caused by factors such as hypoxia (oxygen deficiency), migraines, or neuralgic headaches, and treatment should be targeted according to the underlying cause. Besides these common reasons, other possible factors include cervical spondylosis, anemia, and hypertension. Patients should seek timely medical attention to prevent worsening of the condition.

Altitude sickness, also known as high-altitude reaction, often causes pain in the back of the head. This is usually due to factors such as hypoxia, migraines, or neuralgic headaches, and treatment should be targeted according to the underlying cause. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Hypoxia

In high-altitude areas, the air contains less oxygen, which can easily lead to cerebral hypoxia and result in pain at the back of the head. Symptoms are generally mild and can be relieved by oxygen inhalation via a mask.

2. Migraine

When the head is exposed to cold wind at high altitudes, blood vessels at the back of the head may dilate, causing localized pain along with symptoms such as dizziness and nausea. In such cases, medications like ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets should be taken under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

3. Neuralgic Headache

This type of headache is commonly associated with excessive mental stress or anxiety. Patients typically experience pain at the back of the head, accompanied by stiffness, pressure, or a feeling of fullness in the head. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include taking aspirin enteric-coated tablets or oryzanol tablets.

Besides the common causes mentioned above, other conditions such as cervical spondylosis, cerebral thrombosis, or hypertension could also be responsible. Patients should seek timely medical attention to prevent worsening of the condition.

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What altitude reactions might patients with asthma experience?

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Is there a cure for severe altitude sickness?

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