Migraine headaches: Are they triggered by weather changes?

Can weather changes trigger migraine headaches or other types of headaches?

- Mike / Washington

Mayo Clinic neurologist Jerry Swanson, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

Several studies suggest that weather changes trigger migraine headaches in some individuals. Study results indicate that some people who have migraines appear to be more sensitive to weather changes, such as changes in weather patterns, temperature, absolute humidity and barometric pressure. The reason these factors may trigger migraines in certain people isn't known.

If you feel your migraine headaches are triggered by weather, you may be understandably frustrated. After all, you can't change the weather. However, you may be able to lessen the effects of your migraines by recognizing your specific weather triggers early and taking your migraine medication at the first sign of a migraine.

There's no clear evidence of a link between weather changes and other types of headaches.