Chandannath

Researchers are studying the effects of altitude on the occurrence and severity of postdural puncture headache PDPH after spinal anesthesia during caesarean delivery. This observational study compares women living at high altitude above 2500 m with those living at low altitude below 500 m in Nepal. The goal is to understand if living at higher elevations increases the risk of PDPH following spinal anesthesia. The study involves two groups parturients native to high altitudes and those native to low altitudes, both receiving spinal anesthesia for caesarean section using a 25-gauge pencil point spinal needle. Researchers will collect baseline information including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or previous headaches. The diagnosis of PDPH will follow international headache criteria and will be assessed up to 7 days after spinal anesthesia. Participants will be monitored for headache occurrence, severity, and whether treatments were needed within one month after PDPH onset. Data on other types of headaches will also be collected. The study will record patient characteristics and anesthesia details, with follow-up for up to one month after delivery. Participants will be observed for any complications, and results will help clarify how altitude influences PDPH risk.