What is an airplane headache?

This is not an actual diagnosis, but many develop headaches when they fly. Although airplanes are pressurized, this may not be perfect and some will develop the same symptoms seen in climbers to high altitudes. The headache is usually pulsatile and associated with nausea, shortness of breath and weakness.

Those who are predisposed to these headaches can do better if they drink a large amount of non-alcoholic fluids before the flight. Sometimes acetazolamide taken in advance of the trip can be helpful; an agent commonly used by mountain climbers.