Weather and it’s effects on Migraines

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It’s estimated that 36 million American’s suffer from migraine headaches. Some studies suggest certain aspects of the weather may contribute to that throbbing pain.

Dr. Troy Vines said, “There are some studies that are looking at barometric pressure and whether the actual barometric pressure is causing the headache.”

Barometric pressure measures the weight of air and it’s called barometric pressure because a barometer is used to measure it.

Here in Region 8 we see all kinds of weather created by high and low pressure systems and fronts.

Dr. Vines said, “When the barometric pressure drops or a storm comes through or a tornado hits, then of course anxiety increases and stress is definitely a known cause of migraine headache.”

Dr. Vines said certain changes in the weather could make the pain worse.

“Also a thing that can cause migraines to worsen may be temperature changes,” said Dr. Vines.

If you do have migraine headaches, Dr. Vines recommends you keep a diary and record each time you have one. If they seem to occur more during changes in the weather, then you can take certain medications ahead of time to try and prevent further pain.

Dr. Vines said, “If they know a low pressure system is coming in, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to consider taking two or three Naproxen or related medicines that day.”

Other than changes in the weather, Dr. Vines said stress is one of the leading factors for bringing on migraines. Certain types of foods can contribute to migraines as well.

Dr. Vines said, “In particular certain kinds of cheese and wines, bananas, hotdogs can precipitate migraines as well.”

Dr. Vines said the studies he’s seen do show some correlation between barometric pressure and migraine headaches. However, he said the degree to which it effects migraines isn’t completely clear.

On a side note he said that over-the-counter medicines like Tylenol or Advil usually aren’t the best for helping with migraines.

©2010 KAIT All rights reserved.

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