Migraines are a common problem for many people. For some, they only occur occasionally, while others experience them frequently. There are many different triggers for migraines, including changes in barometric pressure. This is why high altitude can be a problem for people who suffer from migraines - the decrease in barometric pressure can trigger a migraine. In this blog post, we'll discuss the relationship between high altitude and migraines and how to prevent them from happening.
If reading is not your thing, we have an alternative for you! Check out the video below that covers the same topic.
What is high altitude, and what are the effects of high altitude on the body?
High altitude is defined as any elevation above sea level that is greater than 2000 meters. The effects of high altitude on the body can vary depending on how high you are and how long you stay at that elevation. Generally, the higher you are, the more pronounced the effects will be. The most common effect of high altitude is a headache caused by decreased barometric pressure. This can lead to migraines in people who are susceptible to them.
Other effects of high altitude include dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can cause high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), which is a buildup of fluid in the lungs. This is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated immediately.
Depending on your location, high altitude can lead to acute mountain sickness or high altitude headache. Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a condition that can occur when you suddenly travel to a high altitude. The altitude sickness symptoms of AMS include headache, nausea, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. In severe cases, it can lead to HAPE. High altitude headache is a type of headache that occurs at high altitudes.
Related article: Flying with a Migraine, Tips to Prepare for Take-off!
What is a migraine, and what are the triggers for migraines?
A migraine is a type of headache characterized by severe pain, usually on one side of the head. Migraines can also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. There are many different triggers for migraines, including changes in barometric pressure that can lead to altitude headaches. This is why high altitude can be a problem for people who suffer from migraines - the decrease in barometric pressure can trigger a migraine. Other common triggers include stress, lack of sleep, bright lights, and certain foods.
How to prevent migraines at high altitudes?
There are several things you can do to prevent migraines at high altitudes:
-
Slowly acclimatize from a lower altitude to a higher altitude by ascending gradually.
-
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
-
Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
-
Eat small, frequent meals.
-
Get enough sleep.
If you are susceptible to migraines, it is important to take precautions when traveling to high altitudes. By following the tips above, you can help prevent migraines from occurring. If you experience a migraine at a high altitude, several treatments can help relieve the pain, including over-the-counter medications and home remedies. If your symptoms are severe, you may need to descend to a lower elevation until they improve.
Related article: 10 Travel Tips for People with Chronic Migraine!
The relationship between high altitude and migraines
There is a relationship between the decrease of oxygen in the air at sea level that can trigger migraine attacks in some people. If people who experience migraines travel to higher altitudes, the oxygen they breathe becomes less available and, therefore, can trigger migraine attacks and severe headaches.
There are many different triggers for migraines, including changes in barometric pressure. This is why high altitude can be a problem for people who suffer from migraines - the decrease in barometric pressure can trigger a severe headache. Other common triggers include stress, lack of sleep, bright lights, and certain foods.
Related article: Summer Heat and Migraine, How to Prevent Migraines in Hot Weather?
How to prevent migraines from happening at high altitudes
To prevent altitude headaches and migraines, it is important to take the following precautions:
-
Slowly acclimatize to the altitude by ascending gradually
-
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
-
Avoid alcohol and caffeine
-
Eat small, frequent meals
-
Get enough sleep
Migraines can be a real pain, quite literally. If you suffer from migraines, it is important to be aware of the potential triggers, including changes in barometric pressure.
How to keep migraine medication cold while traveling?
Injectable migraine drugs like Aimovig, Emgality, or Ajovy must be kept refrigerated or at least protected from heat. To keep them cool while traveling, be sure to pack them in an insulated bag with ice packs which can be purchased at most pharmacies or online, or a medication cooler from 4AllFamily. The medication cooler always keeps your migraine medication cool during your travels.
It is also important to keep the medication in its original container and not remove the needles. Be sure to keep a migraine diary so you can track your triggers and know when you are most likely to have a migraine attack.
If you suffer from migraines, travel can be tricky. But by being prepared and knowing your triggers, you can help prevent migraines from occurring
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a mountain sickness headache and a migraine?
A mountain sickness headache is different from a migraine because it is caused by the lack of oxygen at high altitudes. On the other hand, a migraine can be triggered by many different things, including changes in barometric pressure.
How can I tell if I have a mountain sickness, headache, or migraine?
If you are experiencing severe headaches at high altitudes, it is important to see a doctor to rule out mountain sickness. Mountain sickness can be very dangerous and should not be ignored. If your headaches are less severe and you have no other symptoms of mountain sickness, you are likely experiencing a migraine.
Conclusion
There are many different things that can trigger a migraine, including changes in barometric pressure. If you suffer from migraines, it is important to be aware of the potential triggers and take precautions when traveling to high altitudes. By following the tips above, you can help prevent migraines from occurring.
We hope this article has been helpful in understanding the relationship between migraines and high altitudes. Stay safe!
