Atmospheric pressure headache: patterns and warning signs

Pressure shifts may act as a trigger in a person prone to migraine or may coincide with sinus pressure, dehydration, disrupted sleep or heat exposure. New or unusual headache deserves assessment based on its features, not the weather forecast.

Migraine-type pain may throb, affect one side, worsen with movement and occur with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound. Facial pressure with blocked nasal passages or thick discharge points to a different pattern, although sinus sensations and migraine can overlap.

A diary can reveal whether pain consistently follows storms, flights or elevation changes. Record where it hurts, how it feels, associated symptoms, sleep, meals, fluid intake, heat, nasal congestion and medicines taken. Several entries are more informative than a single episode.

Drink fluids regularly, eat at usual times, rest in a quiet dim room if light or noise aggravates the pain, and maintain a consistent sleep routine. During air travel, swallowing or gentle yawning may ease ear pressure; avoid forceful pressure-equalising if it causes pain.

If you use non-prescription pain medicine, check that it is suitable with your health conditions and other medicines, and follow the package directions. Frequent use can itself perpetuate headache, so recurring need warrants a clinician or pharmacist review.

Get emergency help for a headache that is suddenly extremely severe, follows a significant head injury, or occurs with weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, loss of vision, a seizure, fainting, confusion or marked drowsiness. Fever with a stiff neck or a non-fading rash also needs immediate assessment.

Arrange prompt medical review for a new pattern, steadily worsening pain, repeated vomiting, pain triggered by exertion or coughing, or headaches that regularly disrupt sleep or daily activities.

Ask whether the diary resembles migraine, nasal or ear pressure problems, or another headache type; which treatment is safe with your medical history; and what change in frequency, intensity or associated symptoms should trigger reassessment.