(WXYZ) – In today's health alert, have you ever wondered if your headaches or migraines are caused by weather changes? If so, you are not alone. Some people are more sensitive to changes in atmospheric pressure.
Many people refer to this as a barometric pressure headache. You see, atmospheric pressure is the weight or pressure of the air around us. It is measured by a scientific instrument called a barometer and can help predict weather changes.
For example, a drop in pressure could mean that snow, rain, or a storm is heading our way. Or if the pressure rises, this usually indicates that the weather will improve. But how do these changes cause headaches or migraines?
Well, our heads have air pockets called sinuses. Most people have four pairs of sinus cavities located between the eyes and nose, all of which are interconnected. Now, when barometric pressure changes, it affects not only the air pressure outside your body but also the air inside your sinuses. This can push fluid into surrounding tissues and disrupt fluid balance.
For some people, it is low atmospheric pressure that causes this. For others, it is a rapid rise in temperatures. But any major changes in the weather can mean a migraine or headache for some people. However, even a slight shift can trigger headaches or make migraines worse for some people.
When weather changes are in the forecast, here's my advice:
- Eat a balanced diet. Avoid foods containing caffeine, MSG, and nitrates as they may trigger migraines.
- Stay hydrated. Fluid changes in your blood vessels can trigger headaches, so try to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
- Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation and oversleeping can trigger migraines, so make sure you maintain a consistent sleep schedule that works for you.
- Stress control. Exercise, lifestyle changes, and relaxation techniques can reduce stress and help you avoid stress hormones that can lead to headaches.
- Keep a headache diary. This can help you know your triggers and the most effective treatments.
- Keep rescue medications on hand. If you do not have any of these, please discuss your options with your doctor. There are also natural remedies you can consider, such as magnesium oxide, vitamin B2, and coenzyme Q10.
If you get migraines often or they cause problems in your life, be sure to talk to your doctor. They can help you figure out what might be triggering your migraines and find the best ways to treat them.
