Seasonal allergies are known for causing congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes, but for many, they also cause migraines. As the weather changes and pollen fills the air, people prone to migraines often notice their headaches becoming more frequent or intense.
Emily Schlitz Fortenberry, M.D., associate professor in the UAB Department of Neurology, provides expert insight into the connection between seasonal allergies and migraines.
Migraines vs. bad headaches
A bad headache can be uncomfortable, but most often, people with headaches are still able to go about their days. However, migraines significantly interfere with daily life. The intensity and accompanying symptoms often make it impossible to concentrate, work, or participate in normal activities.
“Migraine headaches are often more severe and disabling,” Fortenberry explained. “They are associated with intense symptoms such as sensitivity to light and noise, and/or nausea and vomiting. Migraine-related pain is often worse with movement, requiring patients to lie down for the duration of the headache.”
In many cases, these migraine symptoms can last for hours or even days, making it difficult for individuals to maintain their overall quality of life.
How seasonal allergies worsen migraines
Environmental factors such as seasonal allergies and weather changes are frequently reported by patients as migraine triggers. Although the exact mechanisms remain unclear, research suggests the connection is complex and likely involves multiple contributing factors.
One way seasonal allergies may worsen migraines is through their impact on sleep.
“Sleep deprivation or changes in one’s sleep patterns are common triggers for many migraine patients, and seasonal allergies often make it harder to get good rest,” Fortenberry stated. “More research is needed to fully understand the connection, but ongoing inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages from seasonal allergies may also trigger migraines in people who are more sensitive.”
In fact, multiple studies have found that migraines are more common in people with allergic rhinitis. “Healthcare costs related to migraine treatment also tend to spike during allergy seasons, further suggesting a connection between allergen exposure and increased migraine frequency in certain individuals,” Fortenberry added.
Treatments and lifestyle changes to reduce allergy-related migraines
Treatments
Several studies have shown that immunotherapy, such as allergy shots, can reduce headache frequency in certain individuals with allergic (atopic) tendencies.
“However, factors like age and the degree of allergic sensitization often influence how effective these treatments are,” Fortenberry explained. “Antihistamines, particularly first-generation types, can also be helpful, especially in patients whose seasonal allergies disrupt sleep.”
When taken at night, these antihistamines may aid sleep and help lower migraine frequency in those sensitive to sleep-related triggers.
Lifestyle changes
While medications are helpful, daily habits also play a crucial role in preventing allergy-triggered migraines.
“Healthy habits like staying hydrated, sleeping well, eating regularly, exercising, limiting caffeine, and managing stress can all help reduce how often migraines occur,” Fortenberry advised. “Patients should also be compliant with any prescription allergy medications or over-the-counter treatments recommended by their healthcare providers.”
Dehydration and skipped meals are especially common triggers, including for those with allergy-related migraines. Environmental strategies, such as limiting outdoor activity during high pollen days, can provide additional relief when combined with the lifestyle measures above.
Finally, it’s important to know when to seek medical care. Fortenberry emphasized, “When migraines are interfering with one’s quality of life and impacting a patient’s ability to complete tasks necessary for daily life, they should seek medical care.”