Imagine this: You’re about to embark on the summer vacation of your dreams and finally get some much-needed rest and relaxation. As you settle into your seat on the plane after getting through the airport hustle, a migraine unexpectedly strikes. The throbbing headache, dizziness, and overall feeling of discomfort are all too familiar.
Flying, and travel in general, can increase the likelihood of migraine attacks. While migraine triggers vary from person to person, being on a plane is a common trigger for many migraine sufferers. Before the onset of airplane-related head pain, some may experience vision changes such as temporary blind spots, blurred vision, eye pain, or seeing flashing lights, among others.
When a migraine hits, it can be debilitating, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, extreme sensitivity to light, sound, and smells. Dealing with a flight-induced migraine sounds like a nightmare. But there are ways to prevent and manage migraines while onboard to avoid ruining your vacation plans.
Dr. Anna Pace, an expert in neurology, explains why air travel can trigger migraines and provides tips for preventing attacks before, during, and after your flight. Unfortunately, flying presents a perfect storm of migraine triggers, including cabin pressure changes, motion sickness, bright lights, lack of sleep, dehydration, dry air, changes in eating habits, and stress.
Airplane headaches, a specific type of headache related to air travel, can also occur even if you don’t typically experience migraines. These headaches usually subside quickly and may not require medication. However, for those prone to migraines, taking preventive measures is key.
To lower your risk of a migraine attack while flying, consider scheduling flights that won’t disrupt your sleep schedule, packing your migraine medications in your carry-on, eating before heading to the airport, staying hydrated, bringing comfort items like an eye mask or pillow, meditating to reduce stress, and snacking on healthy foods during the flight.
By following these tips, you can hopefully enjoy a migraine-free flight and start your vacation feeling refreshed and ready to explore. Traveling with migraines doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your plans — with some preparation and prevention, you can make the most of your journey.
