Weather and Health
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Weather features prominently as a negative environmental effect on headache, in particular tension headache; and it may bring about or worsen migraine symptoms. A rapid change of single weather elements, such as barometric pressure, temperature, humidity or wind, and a combination of them in a changing weather pattern are responsible for the onset of pain. Some scientists believe that a rapid change in weather – and possibly the ionization of the air – can alter the chemical balance in the human body.
An approaching weather front with falling air pressure, thickening clouds, rising humidity, temperature fluctuations and strengthening wind appear to trigger or aggravate more migraine attacks than any other weather pattern. In contrast, a dry day with high air pressure and sunshine soothes the symptoms. Of course, there are always exceptions. For some people, a major trigger of headache and migraine is bright sunlight. Extremes in temperature and humidity appear to have a similarly negative effect on others.
Of all single weather elements, barometric pressure is the strongest factor. The barometric pressure can change significantly during the passing of a weather front. A rapid decrease and increase of 5% is not uncommon. The barometric pressure also fluctuates rapidly when winds buffet buildings.
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Studies suggest that natural electromagnetic fields influences brain patterns, irritates nerves and changes body chemistry. Not so well researched is the possible negative effect of changes in the earth’s electromagnetic field during solar storms on headache and migraine.
More evidence is available, however, to support the theory of ionization as trigger. Ions are particles in the air with either too many negative electrons (negatively charged), or with missing electrons (positively charged). Positive ionization is said to cause the release of excessive serotonin into the bloodstream. The resulting constriction and dilation of blood vessels in the brain triggers the headache or migraine.
