How to prevent and treat seasonal migraines
Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on June 18th, 2025.
Migraines are an all-too-common condition. More than 10% of Americans are familiar with the headache, nausea, light and noise sensitivity, and exhaustion that come from migraines. For some people, a migraine can mean several days of symptoms, making it difficult or impossible to engage in normal activities until the migraine has passed.
There are many known triggers for migraines, and understanding them can help you prevent some migraine episodes. Stress, hormone fluctuations, and certain foods can trigger migraines. In addition, some people notice seasonal migraines caused by weather conditions and the change of season.
Understanding triggers for weather-related migraine headaches may help you prevent seasonal migraines so you can enjoy the weather no matter the season!
Spring migraines
The change of weather from winter to spring can bring on migraines. This is especially true for people sensitive to the frequent shifts from sunny to rainy weather in the spring months. The changes in barometric pressure can trigger migraine symptoms. You may stave off a migraine by staying indoors during weather fluctuations or by taking migraine medication when the forecast calls for windy or stormy weather.
Summer migraines
Summer brings bright sunlight and sun glare, which can lead to migraines. In addition, the heat and humidity of summer make it hard to stay hydrated, which is another migraine trigger. Drinking plenty of water and wearing sunglasses outdoors may help prevent migraines in the summer.
Fall migraines
Like spring, fall can bring wind, storms, and temperature changes. The connection between better changes to barometric pressure and migraines is a factor during the fall as well. The shortening days may also change sleep schedules. For some people, inconsistent sleep patterns increase the likelihood of migraine. Being cognizant of your sleep and eating schedules may help you prevent migraines during the fall months.
Winter migraines
The cold months of winter are another period when staying hydrated is important for migraine prevention. Dry indoor air may leave you dehydrated and prone to migraines. Snow on the ground can cause significant glare, another reason behind some winter migraines. Keep a water bottle close at hand and shield your eyes from glare to prevent migraines during cold, snowy weather.
Can allergies trigger migraines?
There is a link between seasonal migraines and allergies. People with allergies are more likely to experience migraines than people who don't have allergies. However, exposure to allergens doesn't directly trigger migraines. Instead, physical responses to allergens can make a migraine more likely.
Seasonal allergies or hay fever can cause headaches and sinus congestion, often accompanied by a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. You may have similar symptoms due to year-round allergies to indoor allergens like dust, pet dander, or mold.
Ask your healthcare provider to recommend over-the-counter allergy medications or decongestants to relieve seasonal allergies. You may also benefit from allergy testing to examine exactly what causes your allergy symptoms and get effective treatment. Managing allergies can reduce the risk of allergy-related migraines.
Managing seasonal migraines
It may be helpful to keep a journal where you note the weather conditions on days when you develop a migraine. You can also list what foods you ate, medications you took, and your activities that day. All of that information may reveal a pattern behind when migraines occur. That may allow you to avoid triggers and prevent some seasonal migraines in the future.
If you have seasonal migraines, talk to your healthcare provider. They can go over the factors that trigger migraines and give you a treatment plan that includes prescription migraine medications. A combination of prevention and effective treatment will help you get more migraine-free days all year.
