Correlation Between Barometric Pressure & Headaches

Some people get barometric pressure headaches before a storm.

Falling or rising barometric pressure in the air can trigger headaches in people are prone to other types of headaches. Barometric pressure may also trigger migraines, according to "Migraines For Dummies."

Identification

USA Today notes that changes in air pressure can be easily tracked with barometers or weather websites. People prone to getting barometric pressure headaches can then take preventative medication before the change hits.

Speculation

It is not known exactly how changes in air pressure can trigger a headache. The Mayo Clinic suggests that it may through temperature changes or a change in oxygen content.

Complications

Barometric pressure changes alone may not trigger a headache, but can if a person is exposed to other triggers such as lack of sleep, diet and estrogen levels (in women), according to "Migraines For Dummies."

Diagnosis

The National Headache Foundation recommends that people with chronic headaches or migraines should keep a journal in order to help identify triggers like changes in the weather. It may take weeks or months to identify a trigger.

Treatment

Treating barometric pressure headaches is the same as treating any other type of headache. It can be helped with over-the-counter or prescription painkillers, deep breathing, aromatherapy or whatever works best for the individual.

References

• "Migraines For Dummies"; Diane Stafford & Jennifer Shoquist, MD; 2003
• USA Today: Weather and Health
• CNN: Hot Air Linked to Headaches, but How?

Resources

• Relieve Migraine Headache: Dealing With Your Barometric Pressure Headache
• Weather Channel: Aches and Pains Forecast
• National Headache Foundation: Headache Diary