April Showers bring May Migraine

I often say that migraine sufferers make the best meteorologists. Throughout my career, I’ve heard countless patients describe how changes in weather, either thunderstorms, heat waves, or blizzards, can trigger headaches and migraine attacks. While some providers may overlook these patterns, there’s growing evidence that weather can indeed play a role in migraine onset. This past May, we say a higher then usual amount of rainy weather, and likewise observed an increase in patients reporting worsening migraine and headache frequency/severity.

Although the exact mechanisms aren’t fully understood, several theories have emerged. Shifts in barometric pressure, which often drop ahead of storms, can create imbalances in the sinuses and inner ear, potentially triggering neuroinflammation. For those predisposed to migraine, this can spark a neurological cascade that leads to an attack. Humidity and rainfall have also been linked to fluctuations in neurotransmitters like serotonin, which are involved in pain regulation.

One of my current research collaborations is with Teva, the makers of Ajovy. We’re analyzing clinical trial data to explore how weather patterns, especially temperature and precipitation, may correlate with increased headache frequency in participants. Preliminary findings are promising, and we look forward to publishing more results in the coming months. For those sensitive to weather-related triggers, keeping a headache diary alongside weather conditions can be an effective tool. Proactive use of prescribed medications when storms are expected may help reduce both the severity and frequency of attacks. If you feel weather can instigate a migraine attack or headache, speak with a headache provider to learn what treatments be of help!