Cold can trigger headaches – 5 Less talked about facts
Is there a correlation between weather conditions and migraine?
Have you ever wondered that getting headaches is more common as the weather changes?
While each person may have different migraine triggers, it is true that weather changes trigger migraines too. Apart from changing weather, cold weather specially, is a high potential migraine trigger.
Let’s decode why cold weather acts as one of the worst migraine triggers:
- Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict.
One possible explanation for why cold weather can trigger migraines is that it causes blood vessels in the head and neck to constrict. This can lead to decreased blood flow to the brain, which can cause headaches and migraines.
- Cold weather can cause dehydration.
When it’s cold outside, we tend to spend more time indoors and may not drink as much water as we normally would. Also, cold weather often means dry air, which can aggravate dehydration. It is a lesser known fact that dehydration can be a trigger for migraines and headaches, so it is important to stay hydrated during the winter months.
- Cold weather can affect sleep patterns.
Changes in temperature can also disrupt our sleep patterns, which can lead to headaches and migraines. If you find that you’re having trouble sleeping during the colder months, it may be worth investing in a heated mattress pad or blankets to regulate your body temperature.
- Cold weather can increase stress and tension.
For some people, the added stress and tension that comes with the colder months can act as a migraine trigger. One must work on reducing stress by way of exercising, meditation, or talking to a therapist.
- Changes in barometric pressure can trigger migraines.
When the weather changes, the air pressure changes as well. For some people, these changes in air pressure can trigger a migraine. This is why you may notice an increase in migraines on days when the weather is particularly stormy or when you are traveling and the air pressure in the plane changes.
How to Survive Migraines?
- Pay attention to weather forecasts and plan your activities accordingly. If you know that a change in the weather is coming, you may be able to prepare for it and possibly avoid a migraine.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other non-caffeinated beverages. Dehydration can be a trigger for migraines, so it is important to keep your body hydrated.
- Dress appropriately for the weather. Make sure you are adequately protected from the cold to avoid constriction of blood vessels in your head.
- Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Lack of sleep is a common trigger for migraines, so it is important to get enough sleep every night.
- Find ways to manage stress. This may include exercise, meditation, or talking to a therapist. Reducing stress can help to prevent migraines and headaches.
While there’s no surefire way to completely prevent weather related migraines, taking these preventative measures can help reduce their frequency and severity.
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