Why Do Migraines Get Worse During Certain Seasons?

Have you ever noticed that your migraines have become more severe and frequent during certain times of the year? In that case, you are not alone. You will find many patients complaining that their symptoms of migraines have worsened with the seasons.

But why is it so? Let us know.

What Are Migraines?

A migraine is a condition that causes intense and throbbing pain on one side of the head. They are similar to headaches, but the severity is more than that. Most often, people with headaches can go about their day, but migraines make daily activities difficult.

In some patients, the condition is accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and even sensitivity to light and noise. Moreover, the pain can last for a few hours and also for days.

Different individuals have different migraine-related triggers. However, one factor that is overlooked is seasonal change. While for people, the symptoms deteriorate during the cold and dry weather, others might notice a frequency in the pain during heat and humidity.

Migraines and Seasons: Understanding The Link

Environmental factors, such as seasonal allergies, can flare up migraine attacks due to their impact on sleeping patterns. Individuals who are prone to seasonal allergies struggle to get adequate rest due to the ongoing inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages.

Moreover, multiple studies also reported that migraines are common in patients with allergic rhinitis, which spikes in certain seasons.

Some of the other reasons are:

• Changes in barometric pressure
  Another reason behind migraine attacks is changes in the air pressure, particularly during the springtime in March and April. During this time, the weather is unstable, and there is a quick transition in the temperature, from sunshine and rain. Individuals who are sensitive to this fast shift experience severe headaches and dizziness.
• Increased humidity
  The increased heat and humidity during the summer months are one of the major migraine triggers. It is due to sweat loss, which results in dehydration. Loss of water from the body reduces blood flow and oxygen to the brain. Moreover, prolonged exposure to sunlight also strains the eyes and brain, causing frequent headaches.
• Dry air
  Migraines during the winter months result from dry indoor air and reduced exposure to sunlight. These factors cause a drastic change in mood and result in increased sinus congestion, both of which deteriorate migraine attacks.

How to Cope With Seasonal Migraines?

While you can’t change the weather, you definitely take precautionary measures to prevent a migraine attack from spiking.

• Identify the trigger: Once you identify what’s causing the migraine, completely avoid or minimise the exposure.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially in hot and dry weather.
• Get enough rest: Try to stick to a consistent sleep and meal routine to stabilise your body.
• Reduce stress: Engage in activities like yoga, meditation and relaxation techniques to reduce stress levels.

Conclusion

It is important to know how your body is responding to weather changes and take the necessary steps to manage the triggers. However, if the pain is still not improving, seek medical advice from a general practitioner for proper treatment.