Why do weather changes trigger migraines and how can you relieve them?
Extreme temperatures, very hot or freezing cold days, as well as sudden changes in weather can disrupt the body's internal balance.
Studies show that 30 to 50 percent of people with migraines identify some kind of weather change as a trigger, making this phenomenon a common cause of its onset, reports TPortal.
However, it is one of the most mysterious triggers, as medicine still does not fully understand it.
Air pollutants such as ozone and nitrogen dioxide can cause inflammation in the nerves involved in the development of migraines. Bright sunlight can also be unpleasant, likely due to increased light sensitivity and an overactive visual system in the brain.
There are also studies suggesting that lightning and strong winds may be associated with migraine attacks in some people.
In other words, weather changes can be stressful for an already sensitive brain. The exact triggers and bodily reactions vary from person to person, but research indicates that the interaction between weather and the body plays a role in some migraine sufferers, writes Gizmodo.
How to relieve migraine pain?
We cannot change the weather, but there are steps we can take to prevent or alleviate migraine attacks.
Keep a migraine diary and track the forecast: Record when they occur and what the weather was like. You may notice patterns, such as more frequent migraines the day before rain or during sudden temperature changes, which can help you adjust your schedule or medication plan.
Healthy sleep, diet, and exercise habits: Dehydration, poor sleep, and skipping meals can worsen the effects of weather, while regular exercise and a balanced diet can help your body stay stable and more resilient.
When the sun is too strong or humidity is high, stay indoors. Wear sunglasses, an eye mask, or blue-light-filtering glasses.
Also, darken the room. Some people also find that certain types of earplugs can help reduce the sensation of pressure changes.
Try meditation: Meditation can help regulate the body's physiological responses, such as muscle tension or breathing, and reduce nervous system hypersensitivity in the long term.
Consider preventive treatment: If you know weather is a trigger for you, prepare acute medications in advance or consult your doctor about preventive therapies.
Weather is not the only factor
Although weather changes can be a strong trigger for migraines, they are rarely the sole cause. Most often, they are the result of a combination of factors: genetic predisposition, hormones, stress, sleep, diet, and weather.
That is why it is crucial to identify your personal triggers and develop a plan with your doctor.
Weather-induced migraines can be frustrating because they seem completely beyond your control. But with knowledge, tracking, and the right treatment strategies, it is possible to reduce the frequency of attacks.
