Top 75 Migraine and Headache Questions, #28

Full Question:
Is there a migraine medicine I can take before flying to a high altitude? I live in Florida, flying and high altitudes seem to trigger my migraines. Lisa.

Answer:

Dear Lisa;

I usually suggest that folks going to more than 6000-6500ft of altitude take their triptans more aggressively, even on a daily basis while at altitude. Also, dosing before flying is key. Other agents like acetazolamde can help bring down intracranial fluid pressure which can be elevated in Migraineurs at altitude. So, there are treatment like these and others. Discuss them with your headache physician.

Happy flying,
John Claude Krusz and Teri Robert

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