Winter and Migraine – What is the connection?
Cold and migraine may seem like an unlikely pair, but for many individuals who suffer from migraines, extreme temperatures can trigger an attack. In particular, exposure to cold temperatures or sudden changes in temperature can bring on the symptoms of a migraine, such as a severe headache, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. In some cases, sufferers may experience nausea, vomiting, and brain fog. Some people may also experience a feeling of pressure or tightness in the neck or shoulders. Winter migraines can last several hours or even days, disrupting daily activities. Therefore, it is important for individuals who experience winter migraines to talk to their doctor about potential treatment options.
Causes of winter migraine chills
A variety of factors can cause winter migraine chills like
- Changes in weather,
- Lack of sunlight,
- Fluctuating hormone levels,
- Disruptions in sleep
Winter migraine with fever can also be triggered by dehydration.
Dehydration can trigger winter migraine with fever because it can cause a drop in blood pressure and lead to constriction of blood vessels in the brain. This can decrease the amount of oxygenated blood flow to the brain, leading to a migraine headache. Dehydration can also cause electrolyte imbalances in the body, which can further contribute to the development of migraines. In the winter, people are less likely to hydrate regularly due to the cold weather, which can increase their risk of dehydration and migraines. It is important to sip on plenty of fluids, even in the winter, to prevent dehydration and maintain healthy blood flow to the brain to avoid migraines.
Congestion from extreme heat or cold can worsen migraines.
Nasal congestion, or stuffy nose, occurs when the nasal passages become inflamed and swollen, making it difficult to breathe through the nose. Various factors, including allergies, extreme heat or cold and sinus infections, can cause this. On the other hand, oral congestion results from swelling or inflammation in the mouth or throat. This can make swallowing difficult and cause a person to breathe through their mouth, leading to dryness and irritation. Both nasal and oral congestion can irritate the nerves in the head and neck, triggering a migraine headache. In addition, the increased pressure in the sinuses caused by congestion can also contribute to the development of a migraine.
Tips on preventive migraine treatment at home
Winter migraines can be particularly debilitating due to the added stress and discomfort that cold weather can bring. Preventive migraine treatment involves reducing the likelihood of migraines occurring during the cold season. This means identifying triggers and avoiding them. However, if you are still getting these migraines, following the below recommendations can help ease the migraine pain.
- Rub peppermint oil on the base of the head to battle congestion
- Take warm baths
- Sip on hot beverages
- Include lots of vitamin c and anti-inflammatory compounds in the diet
- Try beta-blockers to dilate the blood vessels
- Try calcium channel blockers to regulate blood vessel dilation
- Try anticonvulsants, which calm the nerves in the brain
However, if the migraine symptoms last over a week, it can indicate a bacterial infection or other underlying medical conditions. Consult a doctor right away.