What to know about migraines and the weather

Sudden changes in the weather or air pressure can cause migraine pain for some. Here's what to know about it.

Weather barometer in vintage style

Updated on April 16, 2024.

High humidity can make hair hard to handle, but did you know it may also provoke headaches? 

If you get migraines, your body may be more sensitive to things like stress, changing levels of hormones, fatigue, and certain types of foods like potatoes, hot dogs, or red wine. You may also be more sensitive to what's happening around you, like bright lights, strong odors and—for 50 percent of migraine sufferers—the weather.

Here are a few other weather conditions to watch for. For some people, hot and humid days may induce a migraine, while for others cold, dry conditions may lead to a migraine. Sudden changes in the weather or air pressure can bring on migraine pain, too.

If you tend to get migraines, consider keeping a diary to identify weather conditions or other triggers for your migraines. If you notice a pattern between certain types of weather and your migraines, you might want to check the weather report and keep pain medications nearby when the forecast predicts the type of weather that triggers your headaches. 

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