Migraines can rain on any headache sufferer’s day, no matter
what the weather outdoors may be doing. At the same time, plenty of people
with migraines claim certain weather patterns make their crippling headaches
considerably more likely than others.
Those with multiple sclerosis seem to be particularly prone
to migraines, although no one seems to know why. (Personally, I can attest to
this!)
What’s the story on weather-related
migraines?
Maybe it’s meteorological. Certain
weather conditions are generally seen as potential triggers for migraines. Here
are some such phenomena frequently regarded as strong setups for these truly
terrible headaches:
- bright sunlight (especially glare)
- deep-freeze cold
- dust storms
- extra-dry air
- extreme heat
- high humidity
- lightning
- low cloud ceiling
- strong winds
- sudden barometric pressure shifts
- and a coming storm.
Essentially, nearly any sudden, extreme sort of weather may
produce the perfect storm for triggering a migraine. One prevailing theory
suggests weather
changes may alter brain chemicals (such as serotonin), which could open the
door to a whopper headache. Barometric pressure changes may also affect blood
vessels in the head, much like what can occur in a pressurized airplane cabin
or a submarine (or at extra-high or extra-low altitudes).
In fact, some meteorological experts (like Accuweather) actually track and predict migraine-risk
weather patterns. As a migraine-prone MSer, I periodically look at such
forecasts. I may even adjust my schedule to avoid overloading myself on days
marked for high probability of migraines.
Today, for example, has been called a high-risk day for
migraines. But I pretty much knew that, even before I looked at Accuweather’s
forecast. There’s also a wind-chill advisory, a fresh-overnight six-inch snow
cover, and a low cloud ceiling.
Please pass the headache tablets, would you?
Image/s:
Adapted from public domain artwork.
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