Barometric pressure headaches: When weather is a pain in the head

At this time of year, dips and drops in temperatures and spots of both seasonal and unseasonal weather test the best of us—it’s enough to give you a headache. What we’re talking about specifically is barometric pressure headaches—often referred to as weather-related headaches—triggered by fluctuations in atmospheric pressure. People sensitive to weather changes may experience these headaches when the barometric pressure rises or falls.

As Jennifer Moreira, MD, a family medicine provider at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Irving suggests, weather changes can affect the barometric pressure outside. Whenever these changes occur, you may start having pressure in your sinuses—often caused by swelling of the sinus tissue due to a pressure imbalance—which can induce migraines, as well as allergy flare-ups.

4 ways to manage barometric pressure headaches

Managing barometric pressure headaches involves monitoring weather changes and avoiding triggers. Strategies include:

• Staying indoors during extreme weather
• Using air purifiers or humidifiers
• Practicing relaxation techniques to reduce stress, which can be an additional trigger
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers

For severe or frequent headaches, seeking medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan may be necessary.

What are barometric pressure headaches?

Barometric pressure headaches occur due to changes in atmospheric pressure. These headaches can be activated by various weather changes, including shifts in barometric pressure, temperature, humidity or altitude.

Common triggers for barometric pressure headaches include sudden weather pattern changes, such as approaching storms, rapid temperature shifts or high-altitude environments. Some people are more sensitive to these changes and are more likely to experience headaches as a result.

6 symptoms of barometric pressure headaches

Barometric pressure headaches can cause significant discomfort. As Dr. Moreira explains, symptoms of barometric pressure headaches vary with different people, but some may experience throbbing pain, pressure around the head or behind the eyes, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Symptoms of barometric pressure headaches can vary, but often include:

• Throbbing or pulsating pain in the head
• Pressure or tightness in the temples or forehead
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nasal congestion

To better manage and treat your condition, it is essential to identify the connection between your headache and the weather.

Keeping a headache diary can help determine if your headaches are weather-related. Record the date, time and location of your headaches, along with any weather changes that occurred before or during the headache. Over time, you may notice a consistent pattern, indicating a link between barometric pressure changes and your headaches.

Causes of barometric pressure headaches

Barometric pressure headaches are primarily triggered by changes in atmospheric pressure. When the atmospheric pressure fluctuates, it can affect the pressure inside your sinuses and the fluids in your body, irritating the nerves and blood vessels in your head, leading to headaches.

In addition to atmospheric pressure changes, rapid temperature changes, high humidity levels and strong winds can also bring on barometric pressure headaches in some people.

It's important to note that barometric pressure headaches differ from migraines, although they can have similar symptoms. While migraines are a neurological condition, barometric pressure headaches are primarily caused by external factors such as changes in atmospheric pressure.

Managing barometric pressure headaches

Barometric pressure headaches can prevent you from enjoying your day and going about your daily activities, but there are strategies to alleviate symptoms during a headache episode and reduce their frequency through lifestyle changes.

To improve symptoms during a barometric pressure headache, consider the following tips:

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed by your healthcare provider
• Apply a cold or warm compress to your head or neck, depending on what feels more soothing
• Rest in a quiet, dark room to minimize sensory stimulation
• Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation, to reduce stress and tension
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day

Dr. Moreira also says that although it can be hard to predict the weather, if you know that ragweed or pollen affects you, you can wear a mask if you're going to be outside. Others might experience triggers to stress or certain foods. So, if you know those things affect you, certain stress reduction activities may be key.

Certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the frequency of headaches:

• Establish a consistent sleep routine to ensure you get enough restful sleep each night
• Avoid certain foods (such as processed meats, aged cheese and chocolate), strong odors and excessive caffeine or alcohol
• Engage in regular exercise to reduce stress and improve overall well-being
• Keep a headache diary to identify patterns to assist in better managing your condition

By implementing these tips and making lifestyle changes, it is possible to manage barometric pressure headaches and improve your overall well-being.

When to seek medical attention for barometric pressure headaches

Barometric pressure headaches can impact your daily life, but when should you speak to a doctor for treatment?

For most people, Dr. Moreira outlines two types of treatments for a migraine or headache caused by barometric pressure.

1. Medications that stop the headache. These usually include NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen, or triptans if the barometric pressure headache progresses to a migraine.,
2. Preventative medicines may be a better option for people who often experience headaches or migraines. These include beta-blockers, CGRP inhibitors, Topiramate or Amitriptyline, to name a few.

While most headaches are manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers, there are situations where medical evaluation is necessary. Seek medical attention if you experience the following:

• Severe pain: If your headache is accompanied by intense and debilitating pain, it's crucial to seek medical attention. Severe pain could indicate an underlying condition that requires treatment.
• Worsening symptoms: If your headaches become more frequent, longer lasting or more severe over time, consult a healthcare professional. These changes may indicate a need for further evaluation and treatment.
• Other neurological symptoms: If you experience dizziness, confusion, difficulty speaking or weakness in your limbs, seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition.

Untreated barometric pressure headaches can lead to complications. Chronic or untreated headaches can affect your quality of life, increase headache frequency and lead to other conditions, such as medication overuse headaches.

If you are experiencing barometric pressure headaches, you can start by visiting Baylor Scott & White’s Virtual Headache Care program—a tool that offers assessments and specialized care for various headache and migraine types without a referral from your provider—all accessed via the MyBSWHealth app.

For further help, you may also schedule an appointment with your primary care provider, who can help determine the underlying causes of your headaches. They will also be able to provide an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan that helps you manage barometric pressure headaches, as well as offering strategies to alleviate your symptoms.

All in all, with the holidays approaching and weather changes a frequent occurrence (as well as the need to have your “head in the game”), pay attention to your body and don’t hesitate to seek treatment if your headaches are impacting your life.