What does it mean if a headache feels like choking on water, and what should I do?
Jun 06, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Headaches that feel like choking on water may be caused by factors such as inhaling water, the common cold, or sinusitis, and treatment should be targeted according to the specific underlying cause. In addition to these relatively common causes, other conditions such as tension headaches, heart failure, or meningitis could also be responsible. If you experience any discomfort, you should seek medical attention promptly for evaluation and timely treatment to avoid delaying diagnosis and management.
Headache that feels like choking on water may be caused by factors such as inhaling water, the common cold, or sinusitis, and treatment should target the specific underlying cause. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Choking on water
Accidentally inhaling water while drinking may trigger severe coughing, which not only irritates the nasal mucosa but may also induce a trigeminal nerve reflex, producing the sensation of choking on water. Mild headaches may also occur simultaneously. Symptoms usually resolve spontaneously and do not require special treatment.
2. Common cold
When cold air enters the body, it may lead to a cold. At this time, pathogens can irritate the nasal mucosa, causing congestion and swelling of blood vessels beneath the mucosa and increasing the sensitivity of nasal nerves, making patients feel discomfort similar to choking on water. Headaches may also accompany these symptoms. Relief can be achieved under medical guidance using medications such as Ganmaoling granules or cold soft capsules.
3. Sinusitis
Sinusitis is a condition caused by pathogenic infection of the nasal mucosa. Under inflammatory stimulation, patients may experience the aforementioned sensations. The inflammation can also stimulate nerve endings in the sinus mucosa, leading to headaches. Symptoms may be relieved through nasal irrigation.
Besides the above relatively common causes, other conditions such as tension headaches, heart failure, or meningitis could also be responsible. If any discomfort occurs, timely medical evaluation and treatment are essential to avoid delays in diagnosis and management.
