Barometric pressure measures air in the atmosphere, which results in weather changes. It also consists of the force that the atmosphere applies to your body. As the sinuses in the body are filled with air, changes in the barometric pressure can result in headaches or migraine.
By noticing if you typically experience a headache when the weather changes, you may be able to identify if the barometric pressure is a triggering factor.
Treatment options such as over-the-counter (OTC) medications, prescription drugs, and lifestyle measures can help you manage the condition.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a barometric pressure headache are similar to those of a typical headache or migraine. The symptoms of a barometric pressure headache may include:
- a constant ache on both sides of the head
- nausea
- vomiting
- increased sensitivity to light and noise
If a migraine occurs, you may experience:
- severe pain on only one side of the head
- tingling or numbness on the face
- dizziness
- visual problems
Causes
Barometric pressure headaches typically happen due to pressure changes in the sinuses. When the weather changes and the barometric pressure lowers, a difference between the pressure of the air inside of your sinuses and the outside air occurs. This can result in pain.
A 2023 study found that barometric pressure headaches typically arise after the barometric pressure lowers — for example, after rainfall.
Research from 2019 also found that humidity can cause headaches and migraine, particularly during warmer seasons. Air pollution can also play a role in increasing the risk of migraine alongside low barometric pressure.
The same phenomenon may occur when you take a flight or drive up a mountain. This is because the pressure changes while you gain altitude. This may cause ear popping or pain due to the barometric pressure change.
However, research surrounding whether a rise in barometric pressure can cause headaches remains conflicting. Further research is still needed on the matter.
Treatment
The treatment for barometric pressure headaches varies from person to person, depending on the severity of the pain and any other symptoms they may be experiencing. Some people may notice an improvement in their headaches by taking OTC medications. Examples include:
- acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- ibuprofen (Advil)
- naproxen (Naprosyn)
If OTC medications do not relieve barometric pressure headaches, a doctor may prescribe prescription medications to improve symptoms. Examples include:
- triptans, such as sumatriptan (Imitrex) and rizatriptan (Maxalt)
- antiemetics, such as metoclopramide (Reglan) and prochlorperazine (Compazine)
- calcium channel blockers, such as nifedipine (Procardia) and diltiazem (Cardizem)
If a barometric pressure headache occurs at a high altitude, it’s important not to ascend further if possible. Instead, the person should stay hydrated and get to a lower altitude. Supplemental oxygen or acetazolamide (Diamox), a medication used to prevent altitude sickness, may be helpful.
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