Migraines in winter: triggers and treatment

Are migraine attacks influenced by the weather?

Meteorological factors are often perceived by patients as significant triggers for migraine. Studies show that fluctuations in temperature and air pressure are significantly associated with an increased frequency of attacks, with foehn weather conditions also playing a relevant role.

Which drug and non-drug therapies are effective?

Although medical research has made significant progress in recent years in developing new and highly effective drugs for the treatment of migraine, this neurological disorder is still incurable.

The most effective treatment consists of a combination of individually tailored therapeutic methods. Important approaches include:

• Pain medication: To relieve acute pain and prevent migraine attacks.
• Physiotherapy and exercise therapy: To improve muscle tone and reduce tension in the neck and shoulder area.
• Relaxation techniques: Measures such as biofeedback, progressive muscle relaxation and breathing exercises promote stress reduction and contribute to pain relief.
• Behavioural and cognitive therapy: Supports coping with stress factors and helps to recognise and change harmful behaviour patterns.
• Lifestyle modifications: Dietary adjustments, sleep hygiene and stress management help to identify and avoid trigger factors.
• Local interventional therapies: These include nerve blocks and Botox therapy.