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Seasonal Migraines: Sleigh Winter Migraine Symptoms

Reducing exposure to the various potential triggers is a vital part of managing migraine symptoms. For instance, the atmospheric and environmental differences that come with the changing seasons can be a significant trigger for migraine sufferers. Seasonal migraines can take the merriness out of the holiday season. While you can’t change the weather, we have some tips to help you sleigh winter migraine symptoms.

Dashing Through the Triggers

Though each person’s migraine experiences vary from the next, some common symptoms that can cause an uptick in winter include:

  • Weather-Related Triggers: The winter is usually marked by cold temperatures, dry air, and snowstorms. Below are some examples of why these can trigger a migraine.
    • Barometric pressure- The snowstorms that hit during the winter are also connected to changes in the barometric pressure.
    • Dry air- we spend more time indoors with increased heating
    • Dehydration- we often drink less in the winter
    • Winter is often a time when we become more sedentary
  • Imbalance in Brain Chemicals: Weather changes may also cause imbalances in brain chemicals like serotonin, which can prompt an attack.

Make a List, Check it Twice.

While many people find relief from available treatments during a migraine attack, preventing or reducing the frequency of attacks is the goal. The more you understand your individual symptoms and triggers, the better chance you have of avoiding them. Keeping a headache diary to track things like what you consume, sleep patterns, and medications can help you identify potential triggers. It can also help your doctor fine-tune your treatment plan.

Migraines mean managing the ups and downs

You can’t avoid some seasonal changes, but preparing for the ones you can will make a world of difference. On freezing, dry winter days, you can stay indoors. However, avoiding a storm that is moving through your area is not practical. These factors can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines:

  • Continue taking your prescribed migraine preventative per your doctor’s instructions. At the start of an attack, you should take your acute migraine drug as soon as possible.
  • Monitor weather changes so you can take action to avoid potential triggers.
  • Make healthier lifestyle choices:
    • Eat healthy foods
    • Exercise regularly
    • Drink enough water
    • Get enough sleep
    • Keep your stress under control

Beat Winter Migraine Blues. Join a Study Today!

Knowledge is a powerful tool for migraine management. That’s why joining a study is a great option to consider. As a clinical research participant, you can learn more about your condition through study medical staff with advanced knowledge of managing and treating migraines. Ultimately, you can take better care of yourself when you have the information and tools.

Are migraines affecting your performance?

Seattle Clinical Research Center is currently enrolling individuals in migraine studies for adults and teens. Study participants are needed to help us advance care options. To learn more, call us at (206) 522-3330 or visit our website today!

Sources:

https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/seasonal-migraine-triggers/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/expert-answers/migraine-headache/faq-20058505

https://www.healthline.com/health/migraine/an-all-seasons-guide-to-managing-weather-related-migraine-triggers#Tracking-your-symptoms-can-help-you-avoid-weather-related-migraine-triggers

 

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