Some people know there’s a storm coming thanks to their weather app. Others seem to be able to predict it with a headache.
If your head starts pounding just before the clouds roll in, you might wonder whether it’s just your imagination. But as it turns out, there’s a real scientific links between weather and headaches.
“Weather-related headaches are very real, especially if you’re prone to migraines,” says Padmini Channamsetty, DO, with Hartford HealthCare Medical Group. “Changes in the environment can affect the body in ways that may trigger headaches in susceptible people.”
Here are some of the most common weather conditions linked to headaches and migraines.
1. Changes in barometric pressure
Barometric pressure refers to the weight of the air around us. When storms move in, that pressure usually drops.
This shift affects the pressure and chemical balance in the body, potentially triggering headaches.
“You might notice a headache or migraine before a storm arrives, rather than during the storm itself,” says Dr. Channamsetty. “That’s when the most significant pressure changes are occurring.”
> Related: 5 Ways to Get Rid of Your Headache
2. Extreme heat and humidity
Hot weather can lead to dehydration, one of the most common headache triggers. Add humidity into the mix, and your body may struggle even more to cool down.
“When temperatures rise, you start to lose more fluids than you realize,” says Dr. Channamsetty. “Even mild dehydration can contribute to headaches, fatigue and difficulty concentrating.”
The problem? Dehydration can sneak up on you.
“Thirst is often a late sign of dehydration,” says Dr. Channamsetty. “If you wait until you’re thirsty to drink water, you may already have symptoms of dehydration. Staying hydrated throughout the day is a great way to prevent headaches.”
> Related: 9 Reasons You Might Have Headaches in the Summer
3. Bright sunlight
Sure, a little sun is great for your tan. But too much direct sunlight isn’t so great for people who suffer from migraine headaches.
“Light sensitivity is a common symptom for people who experience migraines,” says Dr. Channamsetty.
Luckily, the solution is simple.
“Wearing sunglasses, seeking shade and taking breaks from direct sunlight can help reduce exposure and prevent those symptoms,” Dr. Channamsetty adds.
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4. Seasonal allergies
Spring pollen, fall ragweed and other seasonal allergens can lead to sinus inflammation and congestion.
That pressure and inflammation can cause headaches or trigger migraines and tension headaches.
“When your nasal passages and sinuses become inflamed, pressure can build and cause facial pain or headaches,” says Dr. Channamsetty. “This is particularly common during peak allergy seasons.”
> Related: 3 Common Types of Headaches You Might Have
5. Wind
Strong winds can stir up pollen, dust and other airborne irritants. And if you already struggle with allergies, that can make things worse.
“Small environmental stressors can add up,” Dr. Channamsetty says. “When multiple triggers occur at the same time, headaches are more likely.”
Even if it doesn’t worsen your allergies, wind can cause eye irritation and other symptoms.
> Related: Can Physical Therapy Help With Headaches?
It may not be the weather at all
Before blaming the forecast, it’s worth considering what else is going on in your life and in your body.
Not all weather-related headaches are caused by the forecast alone. Stress, poor sleep, dehydration, skipped meals and excessive screen time are all common headache triggers.
“It’s important not to assume every headache is caused by the weather,” says Dr. Channamsetty. “Some symptoms require medical attention, especially if they’re persistent or interfering with everyday life.”
Look out for symptoms like:
- A sudden, severe thunderclap headache that may be described as the worst headache of your life
- New headaches after age 50
- Headaches accompanied by weakness, numbness or confusion
- Headaches with vision changes
- A change in your usual headache pattern
- Headaches that worsen with changes in position
“Any notable change in your headache pattern deserves medical evaluation,” says Dr. Channamsetty. “We want to make sure there isn’t an underlying condition that requires treatment.”
