What is the sharp pain in the head when flying?

Airplane headache (AH) is a rare form of headache disorder that develops exclusively during plane travels. AH was first reported in 2004 [2], and since then, there has been a steady increase in the frequency of reported cases. AH severe pain intensity can cause fear of flying and other anxious symptoms.



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Take an Advil! A comprehensive look at all the literature on airplane headaches agreed that taking an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) can help relieve an airplane headache.

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The increasing pressure leads to sinus pain that can usually be felt around the nose, cheekbones, eyes, and forehead. Bending over may make it worse. When flying, the body has to react to changes in cabin pressure during the flight.

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It is not recommended to fly with acute intracranial hypertension because the conditions in the plane can worsen your condition and cause excruciating pain. If you have chronic or benign intracranial hypertension, you might be able to fly if your condition is under control.

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However, flying is possible for cases of controlled chronic intracranial hypertension. In many cases following treatment and medications, the increased fluid and pressure around the brain is under control and flying is possible, but not completely painless.

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Airplane headache (AH) is an intense, short lasting headache - usually lasts around 30 min [1], and is exclusively related to airplane travels.

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3. Take your medication at least an hour before your flight. If you're taking antihistamines, decongestants, or over-the-counter pain medicine like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, it's important to take your medication at least an hour before your flight so it has time to work before your plane takes off.

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People often describe a stroke headache as the worst headache ever. The pain associated with a stroke headache is quite severe and comes within minutes. It generally doesn't throb or develop gradually like a migraine.

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Ischaemic optic neuropathy, exacerbation of diabetic cystoid macular oedema and neuro-ocular vestibular dysfunction (NOVD) have all been associated with air travel. Air turbulence can cause NOVD or motion sickness.

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Your middle ear connects to the back of your nose via the eustachian tube, which can become blocked by congestion, preventing pressure equalization. When you fly and the air pressure around you changes, the pressure within your blocked sinuses or ears stays the same, causing a great deal of pain.

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