The beautiful city of Bend, situated in central Oregon, is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. However, this part of the Pacific Northwest can be challenging for people who struggle with migraines. The area’s significant differences in climate and altitude between winter and summer months may make it difficult for migraine sufferers to manage and prevent episodes. If you are among them, don’t worry. Here are some tips and tricks to help you manage migraines during Bend’s winter and summer months.
Understanding the Impact of Climate and Altitude
Bend is situated at an elevation of 3,623 feet above sea level. With that comes noticeable changes in climate and altitude between summer and winter months. The city’s summer is characterized by warm and dry temperatures, with an average elevation of 5,000 feet. On the other hand, the winter months see more chilly and cloudy days, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while the elevation remains at 3,623 feet.
Climate and altitude changes can have a major impact on migraine sufferers. Some people can be more prone to migraines when the temperature drops, and others when it’s excessively hot. Additionally, both changes can lead to a shift in pressure on the brain, which might trigger a migraine for some individuals. Given these reasons, it’s important to be aware of your triggers and make sure you are well-prepared for such climate and elevation changes.
Tips to Help Manage Winter Migraines in Bend
If you are someone who experiences migraines more frequently in cold conditions, it’s important to be aware that the cold climate and elevated altitude in Bend may further exacerbate your symptoms. Here are a few tips that may help you manage and prevent winter migraines.
Dress for the Weather
To reduce the risk of a winter migraine in Bend, take precautions by dressing in layers to protect yourself from the cold. Wearing a hat, gloves, and warm coats will help keep you warm and may minimize the chances of a migraine developing. For some individuals, wearing earmuffs in extreme cold can also help keep the ears warm and reduce the likelihood of migraines.
Stay Hydrated
It’s important to drink plenty of fluids during the winter months in Bend, as the city’s dry climate can lead to dehydration. Since dehydration is a common migraine trigger, maintaining proper hydration is key to help manage winter migraines.
Mind Your Eating Habits
It’s important to monitor your food choices, as certain foods can be migraine triggers. Winter months make eating heavier meals, such as comfort foods, more likely. While nothing beats feeling warm and full on chilly days, be sure to avoid foods that may exacerbate your migraines, such as processed meats, aged cheeses, caffeine, and monosodium glutamate (MSG). Instead, opt for foods that are rich in magnesium, like pumpkins, bananas, almonds, and dark leafy greens, as they can help minimize the frequency of migraines.
Tips to Help Manage Summer Migraines in Bend
People who are more prone to migraines during the warm temperatures and low pressures of the summer months in Bend can take certain measures to help them stay headache-free. Here are a few tips that may help you manage and prevent summer migraines.
Dress Appropriately
When the temperature rises and the pressure drops, the chances of developing a migraine headache increases. To help manage and prevent your summer migraines in Bend, dress in lighter, breathable fabrics. Windproof shades and hats can also help keep you cool and protect you from the sun’s rays.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is a common migraine trigger; it is especially important to stay well-hydrated during the summer months. Carry a bottle of water with you to ensure that you are consistently taking in fluids, which can help reduce droplets in atmospheric pressure that could trigger a migraine.
Manage Your Time Outdoors
To avoid the triggers of the summer months, try to enjoy outdoor summer activities earlier in the day or later in the evening, when the temperature is cooler and the number of low-pressure weather events is reduced. Cold packs can also help keep you cool, reduce the likelihood of a migraine, and help you reaso