Barometric Pressure Headaches

Research has shown that people who have migraines appear to be more sensitive to weather changes, like absolute humidity and barometric pressure changes, changes in weather patterns, and temperature changes.  The reasons these weather changes are triggers for some, aren’t completely understood, and that is a source of frustration for many headache sufferers, because you can’t change the weather.  But it will help to realize your specific weather triggers and discuss medication options for easing your barometric pressure headache pain with your doctor. 

There is a theory that the blood vessels in your head expand or contract to compensate for the changes in oxygen levels.  Changes in pressure cause changes in oxygen levels in the air, and scientists are still trying to determine why some people are affected by these changes while others are not.  The same changes in the size of your blood vessels is one part of the many changes that happen when you get a barometric pressure headache.  This may also be why some get headaches when flying, hiking, or traveling to a location with a change in pressure and temperature. 

Some researchers believe that there are many different weather factors working together that trigger a migraine, not just the pressure alone.  One study showed that weather with low pressure, the passage of a warm front, high temperatures and humidity and overcast skies increased the intensity of migraines.  Electrical charges in the air may also trigger barometric pressure headache. Weather changes may also cause chemical changes in your body, which is a trigger for some migraine sufferers. 

So what will help you find relief from your barometric pressure headache?  Keep track of the weather!  Keep a log of what the weather is like the day you have one of your headaches.  A good barometer can help you monitor the barometric pressure.  An ionizer or humidifier can also help to maintain the pressure in your home.  Talk to your doctor about medications that can help to relieve your headaches, and show your doctor your log.