The sound of thunder often signals the start of a heavy storm, but for some, it can also mark the onset of painful headaches. Is there any truth to the idea that weather can affect your health? According to NHS advice, it appears so. As large parts of Scotland experience torrential downpours that battered most regions throughout the night thunderstorms are set to continue into Monday afternoon across the majority of the country.
A yellow weather warning remains in place until the afternoon, meaning the possibility of weather-induced headaches is strong. The yellow weather warning was put in place at 2am on Monday, August 12 and is set to last until around 1pm this afternoon. Regions and local authorities affected include Central, Tayside & Fife, Grampian, Highlands & Eilean Siar, Strathclyde, SW Scotland, Lothian Borders and Orkney & Shetland.
The Met Office have issued an update on the weather throughout the night and this morning, stating: "Torrential downpours and thunderstorms across Scotland and northern England this morning, clearing the east this afternoon. "Over 5000 lightning strikes have been recorded in the last 24 hours across the UK, the majority of these in northern areas." So, with the chance of headaches increasing and what steps can be taken to prevent them or at least reduce the risk? Nick Hird, a hydration expert at ViDrate, previously offered his top tips and guidance for managing headaches and migraines that may be triggered by thunderstorms.
Here's what you need to know. According to the NHS, the answer is a resounding yes. The NHS website warns that those prone to headaches may experience increased discomfort during periods of grey skies, high humidity, rising temperatures, and storms.
The NHS has explained that shifts in atmospheric pressure, often linked to changes in weather, can spark chemical and electrical alterations within the brain. These modifications can irritate nerves, resulting in headaches that can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours. Join the Daily Record's WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
Nick Hird from ViDrate has suggested there are methods to prevent this problem before it happens. His primary advice is: "Stay hydrated, stay ahead!" Here's what he recommends:. "Check the Forecast and stay informed," Nick advises.
"By keeping an eye on the weather report, you can anticipate potential headache triggers and be proactive." "Don't Wait Until You're Thirsty," Nick suggests. "Dehydration is a sneaky enemy, especially during humid weather.
Sip on water consistently throughout the day, even if you don't feel parched." "Sweating is common during storms, and with it, we lose electrolytes vital for proper nerve function. Consider electrolyte-enhanced drinks to replenish these minerals and help prevent headaches," Nick recommends.
"Keep some pain relievers like paracetamol on hand, in case a headache does strike. Furthermore, relaxation is key. Stress can exacerbate headaches so take time to unwind during storms, whether it's reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practising meditation," Nick advises.
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