Migraine Triggers May Include the Weather

     A migraine is a painful headache that may last from four to seventy-two hours if left untreated. Symptoms of a migraine may be severe and include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Some persons may experience an aura (scintillating scotoma), which is characterized by visual changes such as blind spots and flashes of light. Triggers for migraines vary from person to person, and include hormonal changes in women, certain foods, stress, bright lights, and changes in the environment. Some persons may be more likely to experience a migraine in response to certain types of weather changes, such as changes that occur with the temperature and barometric pressure.

     Treatments are available to help decrease the frequency of migraines. Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers, such as verapamil (Calan, Isoptin), work to decrease the severity and frequency of migraines. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as pro-triptyline (Vivactil) also work to prevent migraines through their effect on the level of serotonin in the brain. Medications used to treat migraines, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and triptans, should be taken at the first sign of a migraine. Triptans, such as sumatriptan (Imitrex), work to relieve pain and nausea of severe migraines.