One can find so many pains when the rain is falling.— John Steinbeck
If you believe your body tells you when a storm is on the horizon, it is not your imagination. The elements have long been blamed for a myriad of physical ailments, including headaches.
Temperature fluctuations, changes in humidity, and especially areas of high and low atmospheric pressure can cause blood vessels in the brain to contract and expand and spawn headaches, said Dr. Janice Maldonado, a headache specialist with the Department of Neurology at USF Health.
“Every migraine patient will likely have a unique set of triggers for migraine and different weather factors are certainly reported,” Dr. Maldonado said.
Barometric pressure is the amount of force the air presses on things such as our bodies. Shifts in air pressure can affect our sinus cavities, which are filled with air. This can explain why certain “human barometers” can feel changes in the air as pressure or even pain in their face or head. Given the large swings in barometric pressure ahead of a tropical storm or other large storms, these people may experience more weather-related illness during the hurricane season.
Although we do not have the ability to change weather patterns, Dr. Maldonado said there are several strategies people can take to mitigate or even prevent headaches brought on by weather changes:
- Limiting caffeine intake
- Exercising regularly
- Limiting alcohol
- Avoiding sensory overload, fluorescent or bright lighting, potent smells, or loud noises
- Treating hormonal changes
- Limiting screen time on all devices
- Making smart food choices, such as avoiding food rich in MSG, nitrates, and artificial sweeteners.
If headaches persist, it is always important to see your doctor to determine if there are other causes and establish a course of treatment.
For more information regarding headaches and recommended treatments visit https://health.usf.edu/care/neurology/services-specialties/headache-painmed.
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