Major storms and migraine
Hi all I'm in Massachusetts and we're expecting a huge storm tomorrow. To prepare for storms I usually take Excedrin migraine the day before it's to start then about 12 hours later I'll take aspirin and I'll continue taking aspirin every 6 hours until the storm is passed. Sometimes this works for me that either I have no pain or I just have a dull pain in my head for the duration of the storm or it doesn't work at all. I'm wondering how do you all handle storms if they are trigger for your migraines?
Hi
,
You' re not alone in experiencing changes in the barometric pressure triggering an attack. We have a bit of information I can share with you on how to combat this; https://migraine.com/living-migraine/triggered-by-weather-this-medication-may-help/
https://migraine.com/video/magnesium-weather-triggered-attacks/
https://migraine.com/search?s=barometric%20pressure.
Some people use WeatherX ear plugs and find them beneficial. They have an app that alerts you to barometric pressure changes and when it's time to use the ear plugs.
My fingers are crossed the storm isn't too awful where you live. Will you keep us posted on how you make out? Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Advocate/Moderator Migraine.com Team
- It is so difficult dealing with barometric pressure - there's just no way to manage the weather. I get sinus migraines from weather changes. I grew up in Buffalo, NY where there are horrible storms during every season living just off the Great Lakes. I understand. Am in Arizona now, and storms coming through still affect me greatly. Besides prescription meds, I take Advil Sinus Congestion to relieve the building pressure in my face and head. I also use the WeatherX app and earplugs. I used them a few weeks ago when storms rolled in. I was able to get some rest and woke without a migraine, which was such a blessing. I hope you get some feedback here and find relief from weather/barometric changes affecting your migraine disease. Best of wellness ~ Rebecca (comm advc) If you experience daily or frequent/occurring migraines, you should NOT be using OTC drugs like Excedrin. Excedrin is fine if you are taking 2 pills once a week, any more or more frequently will risk more pain triggering as a result, known as a rebound headache. On top of that it could worsen the overall condition.
Be careful and stay safe. Follow the instructions on the label and don't abuse any medications like that lest you shoot yourself in the foot.I do, however I'm only seeing them every 6 weeks due to scheduling. I'm taking one prescription prescribed to me, and as for whether I'm chronic to be honest sometimes it certainly feels that way with how frequent my migraines are. I don't want to see a specialist just yet, however once I feel like my options have been exhausted I'll probably start seeing one. 
Thanks so much for getting back to us on this. Actually seeing a doctor related to migraine every six weeks is unique and I'm glad you're getting that kind of care. I will say, whenever you are ready (if ever) to see a specialist, I'm sending you a link to help you seek that resource in your area. https://migraine.com/blog/looking-for-a-migraine-specialist
I will say also, that sadly, there is a shortage of these specialists currently. Still, worth it to pursue if you get to the point that you are needing this kind of support. As always we are here to support you always. Thanks so much for reaching out and stay in touch. So glad you're a part of our community. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
update on the blizzard. I did take the Excedrin migraine but not the aspirin. It wasn't as bad as I thought it was. I'm taking Ajovy so it may have helped. I did have a migraine but it was mild compared to other major storms and so to keep it from getting out of control I took the Excedrin migraine about every 24hrs then weened off the Excedrin so as not to get a rebound. It's is tricky to try to get through the worst migraines without a rebound and yes I have done it to myself many a times over the 50+ years of having them. I've been working with my doctor and has been a horrible time because of insurance to get me on a medication that can at least get me to episodic migraine from chronic. I'm still not sure how well the Ajovy is working just took my 4th jab this month. However, winter is the real test as my major trigger is light and with all this snow it's challenging just to look or go outdoors. 24 hours isn't enough! Remember, it should be 1-2 times a week! Just like me you might be experiencing rebounds without identifying them as such. OTC pain meds are designed to be taken no more than 2 times in a 1 week window, as outlined on the Excedrin bottle. My doctor also could not come up with a solution for me so I saw a neurologist which helped me a lot, they also helped me realize Excedrin was dangerous and a major factor in my migraines.
PLEASE KEEP IN MIND that abusing OTC drugs and getting into a rebound headache cycle could lead to the worsening of your migraines, including the frequency of them.
Excedrin is NOT designed or FIT for recurring migraines. As such, it can NEVER be a safe treatment option, even if you think you are using it wisely it will only cause you problems. This isn't even getting into the issue that you're using it in combination with something else, it is probable that the Excedrin might conflict with the other drug. You should see a migraine specialist.
