Have you noticed that there is a certain unpredictability to the weather: it is warm and breezy one day, and the next day it’s stormy and thick with humidity. And for many, this isn’t just inconvenient, it’s painful.
Sudden changes in temperature, humidity or air pressure can act as triggers for migraine flares, Dr Sunil Kutty, a neurosurgeon at NewEra Hospital, Navi Mumbai, tells Moneycontrol. “The effects can be debilitating, a pounding head, nausea, light sensitivity, it completely unsettles the person,” he adds.
Speaking about how weather triggers migraines, Dr Kutty says, “Some believe that barometric pressure changes affect the pressure within the brain. Others link it to inflammation or nerve sensitivity. Even bright sunlight or the drop before a thunderstorm can set off an attack,” he says.
Also read | Cure stress migraine, headache and nerve pain with these 10 simple lifestyle changes
While medication plays a key role, especially for chronic sufferers, there’s increasing evidence, and experience, that natural remedies and routine can help lessen the impact.
How to reduce migraine headaches
- Hydration, the first defence: Migraine or not, dehydration is a common and underestimated trigger for headaches and more. Dr Kutty recommends drinking at least 4 litres of water daily, especially during warmer months. “Most people don’t realise they’re dehydrated until symptoms strike. Stay ahead of it; keep sipping water through the day,” he advises.
- Sleep like clockwork: You can’t cheat sleep without consequences. Irregular sleep, or too little of it, can throw the brain’s chemistry off balance. “A structured sleep routine of at least eight hours each night is non-negotiable for migraine-prone individuals,” says Dr Kutty. No late-night screens, no erratic bedtimes, just follow a routine and rest.
- Eat clean, eat smart: Your diet directly affects your brain. Avoid processed foods, skip the skipping of meals, and focus on whole grains, fresh produce, and balanced meals. It’s about keeping your energy, and blood sugar, steady. Caffeine and alcohol, though tempting, can dehydrate and often act as sneaky triggers.
- Cold compress and calm spaces: In the throes of a migraine, simplicity helps. A cold compress on the forehead can offer immediate relief. Equally, calming practices like yoga, deep breathing or guided meditation can soothe the nervous system. “It’s about bringing the body back to balance,” Dr Kutty adds.
- Keep moving, but gently: Don’t fear light exercise. Walking, stretching, or slow-paced yoga can help with circulation and blood flow, reducing migraine frequency over time. Just avoid pushing too hard when symptoms are near.
- Know your patterns: Tracking migraines in a personal diary, along with daily weather conditions, can help spot trends and triggers. “Understanding when and why migraines occur is half the battle. This data can prove vital when consulting a specialist,” Dr Kutty stresses.
Weather is fickle, but your response doesn’t have to be. If your migraines are becoming more severe, changing in pattern, or bringing along strange symptoms like blurred vision or numbness, don’t delay seeking medical attention. “All headaches aren’t migraines, and not all migraines are minor. Never self-diagnose when your body is trying to tell you something serious,” warns Dr Kutty.
FAQs on Migraine Headaches
1. What weather changes can trigger migraines?
Sudden changes in temperature, humidity, or air pressure can trigger migraines. These changes can cause symptoms like a pounding head, nausea, and light sensitivity.
2. How can dehydration affect migraines?
Dehydration is a common trigger for migraines. Drinking at least 4 litres of water daily can help prevent dehydration and reduce migraine frequency.
3. Why is a regular sleep schedule important for managing migraines?
Irregular sleep can disrupt brain chemistry, increasing migraine risk. A consistent sleep routine of at least eight hours per night is crucial for those prone to migraines.
4. What dietary habits can help reduce migraines?
A balanced diet with whole grains, fresh produce, and regular meals can stabilise energy and blood sugar levels, reducing migraine triggers. Avoiding processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol is also beneficial.
5. How can cold compresses and relaxation techniques help during a migraine?
Applying a cold compress to the forehead can provide immediate relief. Practices like yoga, deep breathing, or meditation can calm the nervous system and help restore balance during a migraine.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.
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