Noticing More Migraine Attacks This Fall? Here’s Why

I live in the Northeast, and the fall is our season to shine. The leaves change color creating a beautiful rainbow of autumn colors and the crisp air seems to bring a new energy to each day. It’s time to bring out the sweaters, boots and cozy blankets.  (I just received a new blanket as a housewarming gift this summer and I’m so excited to start using it!) However, for those living with migraine, it may also be the season that you experience more migraine attacks. So, it got me thinking, why don’t the fall and migraine mix well for some of us?

I did some digging around and here’s what I found. It’s certainly not a complete list, but I think it’s a good starting point. And we can keep the conversation – and the list – going in the comments below.

How might weather changes play a role?

One of the most significant factors contributing to fall migraine attacks is the weather – specifically its unpredictable fluctuations in temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure. My headache specialist was the first one to mention the connection of weather patterns to me. Apparently, the sudden drop in temperature or a spike in humidity can easily set off an attack. The greatest challenge of this is that it’s one that is not within our control. We can’t control mother nature. Although, I have come to know a few people who relocate when they were too affected by the weather in their town. Hopefully you’re not at that point, however, what can be helpful, is being aware of your local weather patterns so that you can at least try to reduce other possible triggers that are within your control, if you anticipate an upcoming shift in weather.

Do you experience fall allergies?

Fall is also prime time for allergies – another significant trigger for migraine attacks. Ragweed, mold, and pollen levels tend to peak during the fall, making it uncomfortable for not just the people who are easily affected by environmental allergies, but also those living with migraine. The increased exposure to allergens can lead to more frequent and severe attacks. This is especially true if the allergies affect your sinuses. That’s like insult on top of injury.

How can changes in routine be triggering?

The transition from summer to fall can also bring changes in our daily routines. Adjusting to new schedules, whether it’s for school, work, or other commitments, can disrupt our sleep and meal routines. I don’t know about you, but I feel like the fall starts with this back-to-school rush and then leads straight into the holidays. I definitely find consistent sleep and regular meals to be two important habits to managing migraine. So, a disruption in either can make me feel more vulnerable to an attack. Like many of us, my body thrives on routine, so sudden changes can be a stressor.

Can increased time indoors have something to do with it?

As the weather cools – and the days get shorter – we tend to spend more time inside. It’s natural – especially after the number of heat waves we had this past summer! - but it can also lead to increased exposure to indoor allergens and culprits such as dust, mold, and even just the aroma of well-intended cleaning products. I recently heard that air quality is actually better outside versus inside the house. Surprising, but I guess not really when you think about poor air circulation. Not to mention, as we spend more time indoors, we’re also likely spending more time looking at screens and surrounded by artificial lights – both of which can be triggering.

How can we manage migraine in the fall?

Now, we certainly can’t just skip a season, so how do we best manage the fall?

I think the answer may be summarized with the importance of simply knowing your susceptibility to these triggers and doing what you can to manage them. For example, if you tend to get allergies, stay on top of your allergy treatments. If you tend to be vulnerable to changes in your routine and sleep patterns, be intentional with maintaining a good nighttime routine to support sleep.

The truth, as we all know, is that there’s no sure-fire way to avoid migraine attacks. However, the more educated we are about the possible triggers and take the steps to effectively manage them, the better we will be.

Now let’s learn from you! Do you have any special habits or hacks for reducing migraine attacks in the fall? Share below, we’d love to hear from you!