As headache clinicians, we often hear patients say, “I can feel a storm coming” or “The heat makes my headaches worse.”
While these anecdotes are common, they’re also supported by scientific research, indicating that weather and climate can significantly trigger headaches and migraine.
Globally, migraine affects over one billion people, making it the third most prevalent illness worldwide.
In Australia alone, it’s estimated that 4.9 million people suffer from migraine, with women being disproportionately affected at a ratio of 3:1 compared to men. Understanding how environmental factors impact your condition is an essential first step towards effective management.
In this blog, you’ll learn about the following:
- The Mechanics of how weather can trigger migraine
- The top 4 tips for managing migraine with weather changes
Why Do Weather Changes Trigger Migraine?
The exact mechanisms behind weather-induced migraine are not entirely understood, but several theories exist:
Barometric Pressure and Nerve Stimulation: Changes in atmospheric pressure may affect the sinuses and cranial nerves, leading to discomfort or pain. A study in the Mathews Journal of Emergency Medicine supports this, highlighting a clear link between barometric pressure shifts and migraine incidence.
Temperature-Related Dehydration: High temperatures and humidity can cause dehydration, which is a known migraine trigger. Research in the Journal of Neurology observed that rising temperatures and high humidity levels are common triggers for a subset of migraine sufferers.
Changes in Serotonin Levels: Weather fluctuations may influence the body’s serotonin levels, which play a role in migraine pathways. For example, rapid weather shifts, as presented by the European Academy of Neurology, showed that sudden increases in temperature and decreases in barometric pressure can precipitate migraine.
Inflammatory Responses: Weather-induced stress on the body can increase inflammatory markers, exacerbating headaches.
Is Weather Your Migraine Trigger?
Not all migraine sufferers are affected by weather changes. Research indicates that only a subset of individuals with migraine are sensitive to environmental triggers. However, for those who are, identifying and managing these triggers can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks.
How to Manage Weather-Triggered Migraine
While you can’t control the weather, there are several steps you can take to mitigate its impact:
- Track Your Symptoms: Keeping a headache diary can help identify patterns between weather conditions and your migraine.
- Stay Hydrated: Ensure you’re drinking enough water, especially during hot or humid days.
- Limit Outdoor Exposure: Minimise time outdoors during extreme weather changes.
- Use Climate-Control Tools: Air conditioning and humidifiers can help stabilise your immediate environment.
Book an Appointment for a Thorough Assessment
At Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic, we specialise in identifying and treating the root causes of headaches and migraine.
If weather changes are impacting your daily life, it’s important to confirm whether they’re a primary trigger or part of a broader pattern of underlying issues.
Our comprehensive initial assessments include a detailed discussion of your symptoms, potential triggers, and a tailored treatment plan to help you regain control.
Don’t let migraines dictate your life. Book your appointment today at 1800 432 322 with us at The Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic and take the first step toward effective migraine management.
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References
Mathews Journal of Emergency Medicine. (Year). Weather and migraine: Is there a relationship between barometric pressure change and ED migraine visits? Retrieved from https://www.mathewsopenaccess.com
Neeb, L., & Members of the Journal of Neurology. (Year). The influence of weather on migraine: Are migraine attacks predictable? Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net
European Academy of Neurology. (Year). Study confirms the impact of weather variations on migraine. Retrieved from https://thelimbic.com
