Barometric Pressure & Migraines: Understanding the Connection

A change or drop in barometric pressure as well as rise in humidity or extreme changes in temperature are common triggers for a migraine attack.

The Facts

• It is believed that changes in barometric pressure cause blood vessels to expand to compensate. Swelled blood vessels on the surface of the brain are the cause of migraine pain.

Symptoms

• Migraine symptoms include a throbbing headache, nausea, vomiting and light sensitivity.

Tips

• Keep track of barometric changes and its effects on your migraines. Record your findings in a migraine diary to see patterns. This becomes a valuable tool when talking to your doctor about treatment options.

Treatment

• You can take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory migraine medication when you feel the first signs of your migraine. If your migraines become chronic your doctor may want to try a preventative medication.

Warning

• Overuse of both prescribed and over-the-counter medication used to treat headache and migraine pain can actually cause a migraine. This is most commonly referred to as Medication Overuse Headache or MOH. Talk to your doctor if your condition becomes chronic to explore alternative options.