Unraveling the Weather-Migraine Connection

Moreover, not everyone reacts the same way to changes in weather. Some people may experience migraines when it’s hot, while others may get them when it’s cold. Additionally, certain individuals are more sensitive to variations in temperature and humidity.

Migraine triggers can also be a combination of factors. For instance, you might have a migraine on humid days, but only if you’re stressed or hungry.

Changes in humidity

The relationship between humidity, temperature, and migraines is not always straightforward. Generally, higher humidity and temperatures can trigger migraine attacks, and sudden changes in these conditions (either up or down) might also play a role.

A study in 2017 found that more people visit the emergency department for migraines on warm and humid days, while there is a decrease on cold, dry days. Another study in 2015 observed an increase in emergency room admissions for migraines on hot, dry days.

One possible explanation for the higher occurrence of migraines during hot or dry weather is dehydration, a known trigger for migraines.

Changes in temperature

Temperature changes can contribute to migraine attacks, but there is some disagreement among studies. A study from 2015 suggested that how you react to temperature might influence its potential to trigger migraines. In this study, individuals sensitive to temperature experienced more migraine attacks during the winter. In comparison, those less sensitive tended to have more attacks in the summer, albeit to a lesser degree. The study proposed that temperature-sensitive individuals may be more aware of cold temperature changes.

However, a more recent study from 2020 did not find any connection between hot or cold weather and migraines. Additional research is required to understand the relationship between temperature and migraine attacks.

Storms

Not many studies have looked into how storms specifically impact migraines.

In 2013, a study discovered a connection between lightning and headaches in individuals who have migraines. However, the reason for this association wasn’t apparent.

The possibility of storms triggering migraines could be tied to changes in air pressure. A small study 2015 suggested that a drop in barometric (air) pressure, usually indicating an upcoming storm, was linked to migraines.

The study’s researchers suggested that individuals with migraines should be prepared with medication when storms, like cyclones, are predicted.

Dry weather

Like any other weather situation, there’s mixed information about how dry weather impacts migraines. This confusion might be because people react differently to weather changes, highlighting the need for more research.

The American Migraine Foundation suggests that cold and dry winter air can cause dehydration, potentially triggering migraine attacks.

However, another study from 2019 and other research indicate that higher humidity in warm weather might also increase the likelihood of experiencing migraine attacks.

Wind

There hasn’t been much recent research on how wind affects migraines, even though many people believe that wind can trigger migraines.

A study from the year 2000 looked at the connection between migraines and Chinook winds, which are warm winds that blow from the west in certain parts of Canada.

The study discovered that on days before and during high-speed Chinook winds, some participants were more likely to experience migraine attacks.

Dust

The connection between dust and migraines is probably linked to allergies.

A study in 2017 discovered that individuals with specific allergies, such as dust allergies, tended to experience more frequent migraine attacks.

In a broader sense, a study from 2016 proposed that migraines could be connected to allergic rhinitis, a condition where your body reacts to specific allergens.

The inflammation triggered by allergens might be a factor contributing to these migraine episodes.

Upper cervical chiropractic for migraine

Upper cervical chiropractic care is a specialized branch of chiropractic that focuses on the upper part of the spine, particularly the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae.

In upper cervical chiropractic, adjustments to the upper cervical spine can correct misalignments, known as subluxations, and restore proper nerve function. Such adjustments positively impact the nervous system, reducing interference and promoting overall health, including relief from migraines.

Preventing attacks

While you can’t change the weather, you can take steps to manage migraines better when the temperature or humidity shifts.

Start by identifying your triggers. Keep a record of your activities when migraines occur. This way, you can recognize which weather changes often lead to your headaches.

Consider spending less time outdoors when the weather seems likely to trigger a migraine. If you must be in the sun, protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses

blocking UV rays.

Disclaimer:

Dr. Berner does not diagnose, treat, or prevent any medical diseases or conditions; instead, he analyzes and corrects the structure of his patients with Foundational Corrections to improve their overall quality of life. He works with their physicians, who regulate their medications. This blog post is not designed to provide medical advice, professional diagnosis, opinion, treatment, or services to you or any other individual. The information provided in this post or through linkages to other sites is not a substitute for medical or professional care. You should not use the information in place of a visit, consultation, or the advice of your physician or another healthcare provider. Foundation Chiropractic and Dr. Brett Berner are not liable or responsible for any advice, the course of treatment, diagnosis, or any other information, services, or products you obtain through this article or others.