Scientists Investigates a Cure to Headache During Flight

(Newswire.net — December 23, 2022) Orlando, FL — There are many people who struggle with pain or headaches while flying. Headaches may actually happen anytime to anyone, but they are also likely to happen during plane travel.

A study was carried out recently by researchers from Aalborg University.

In this research, the investigators appear to have discovered the mechanisms responsible for the headaches during flight. Such a discovery may pave the way for the development of a treatment.

In a past study carried out by these researchers, they found that one out of twelve people on a flight gets a severe headache. Now, the research group, for the first time in the world, investigate the cause of the issue.

“The major changes in cabin pressure at take-off and landing may cause tissue damage and inflammation in the sinuses. This releases the substance PGE2, which can make the blood vessels in the brain expand and thus cause head pain,” says Master’s student Sebastian Bao Dinh Bui.

Torben Petersen and Sebastian Bao Dinh Bui conducted the study as part of their studies in Medicine with Industrial Specialization (MedIS) at Aalborg University along with their supervisor, Parisa Gazerani, Associate Professor. 

The findings of this interesting research were published in The Journal of Headache and Pain.

The subjects were placed in a certain pressure chamber, which simulated the pressure changes during a flight. Their regular saliva samples were taken during the trip to measure PGE2 levels as well as cortisol, which is a stress hormone. 

It is worth noting that both substances were prominent in individuals who suffer from headaches when flying.

According to Master’s student Sebastian Bao Dinh Bui, the elevated cortisol level indicates that these people are very stressed when they fly. 

“We have already seen that some airline passengers develop anxiety and stress when they travel, which may also trigger a headache. It is a vicious cycle,” he added.

Headaches and migraines are undeniably a pain, and this is why experts continue to investigate some remedies that could be helpful in fighting them. There are actually macrominerals like the use of magnesium that may be helpful.

Magnesium has long been studied due to its strong medicinal potential. In some studies, it has been found to have anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, hypertension-regulating, diabetes-fighting, bone-health-protecting, neuroprotective, stress-reducing, and mood-boosting potentials.

There have been studies revealing that intake of magnesium worked in helping alleviate migraine symptoms. There are supplements and even sprays available like Purest Vantage Magnesium Oil, which is known for its high potency and purity (http://www.amazon.com/Pure-Magnesium-Oil-Spray-Transdermal/dp/B011T9TASI).