As climate change increases the number of times we deal with heatwaves and pollution, it is important to consider these risk factors when it comes to migraines, the researchers wrote.
Why do these factors increase the risk of migraines?
It is important to note that the study did not prove that air pollution, heat and low humidity levels a reason Migraines – I just found a connection between them. But doctors say there’s probably something here.
Air pollution can lead to neuritis (inflammatory response of the immune system in the brain and spinal cord), which is a risk factor for migraines. Sana Ghafoor, MDThe neurologist at Tufts Medical Center tells SELF. This may cause the release of pain-causing chemicals such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and substance P that can trigger migraines, says Dr. Ghafoor.
Air pollution may be a particular problem for people with allergies who also suffer from migraines. Clifford Siegel, DOa neurologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, tells SELF. He explains that the body may see air pollution as an allergen and trigger an immune response, which may lead to migraines in people who are sensitive to this trigger.
Then there’s the fact that heat can affect blood vessels and nerves. “When people overheat, nerves and blood vessels in tight spaces can become irritated, as the diameter of the blood vessels or nerves increases with the heat,” says Dr. Siegel. This can also lead to migraines. You’re also more likely to become dehydrated when it’s hot, says Dr. Ghafoor: “If you’re overheated and dehydrated, that can also trigger a migraine.”
Dr. Siegel points out that the high humidity common in spring and summer (and not just that related to air pollution) can trigger migraines, too. Dr. Siegel says high humidity causes you to sweat and lose water, which can reduce the amount of blood in your blood vessels (if you don’t replace it). “This reduces the diameter of the blood vessels and can cause headaches, just like increasing the diameter of the blood vessels,” he says.
