How Wildfire Smoke Impacts Migraine and Headache Symptoms

| January 27, 2025

Do you know how easily (and far) wildfire smoke can travel?

Smoke from wildfires is becoming an increasing problem throughout the United States and Canada. Even if you don’t live in an area prone to wildfires, wildfire smoke can carry hundreds of miles into your neighborhood. Wildfire smoke contributes to poor air quality and can worsen chronic conditions such as asthma, as well as triggering migraine attacks.

Health effects of wildfire smoke.

According the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), particulate matter from wildfire smoke can cause:

  • Respiratory issues like coughing, trouble breathing, wheezing, and asthma attacks.
  • Irritated sinuses, scratchy throat, runny nose and stinging eyes.
  • Headaches, tiredness, chest pain, and a fast heartbeat.

People with chronic conditions like asthma, COPD, and heart disease may be more impacted by wildfire smoke than others, and often people with migraine have these chronic conditions also. A 2023 study showed short-term exposure to wildfire smoke may increase emergency department visits for headache symptoms1.

Unfortunately, wildfire smoke is a dangerous mix of chemicals and pollutants. The Environmental Protection Agency says this complex mixture includes carbon monoxide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), water vapor and particle pollution. The particles are so small, they can lodge deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. Even limited smoke exposure can cause respiratory,  cardiovascular, or headache and migraine symptoms. In addition, aldehydes (like formaldehyde) are organic compounds found in wildfire smoke that can cause headache and migraine symptoms, and nausea.

Protect yourself from wildfire smoke

Evacuate if necessary

Follow your city or county’s recommendation for evacuation. Evacuation orders can come quickly, so having a migraine “to-go bag” already packed is crucial. Your bag should include all your medications and treatments, your Migraine Action Plan, and plenty of water and snacks.

Monitor the air quality

Pollution, temperature, humidity and wildfire smoke all factor into the daily air quality. You can check the air quality index daily on the website AirNow.gov for general air quality information, as well as specific information with a live map for wildfire smoke. You can also check the heat index. If you can, stay inside when the the air quality is bad, and keep your windows and doors closed. If you do have to go outside, consider wearing an N95 mask for protection.

Take your medication as directed

Your treatment plan needs to be up to date. Create a Migraine Action Plan (MAP) with your doctor, and review and update the plan at every visit. The MAP explains which treatments to use and when, what treatments to add-on as needed, and when to seek medical attention. It is important to follow your Migraine Action Plan to ensure you are taking preventive treatments as prescribed, using at-home therapies and medical devices appropriately, and taking abortive treatments at the first sign of symptoms.

Stick to your regular routine

Sometimes the smallest change in our routine can trigger a migraine. As much as possible, stick to your sleep and diet schedule. Remember to stay hydrated and manage stress. Connect with others online if you need support!

Manage your in-home air quality

No matter how hard we try, bad air from outside is going to get inside. Here are few tips to keep the indoor air as healthy as possible:

  • Use an air purifier: A portable air purifier can help remove dust, mold, pollution and wildfire particles from the air. Choose a purifier that is big enough to handle the room, preferably with a HEPA filter. Don’t use the ionizer function, since that creates ozone that will make the air quality worse.
  • Keep windows closed and sealed: If you have one, use your HVAC system and keep the windows closed. You can seal windows and air vents with plastic. (When riding in your car, keep the windows up and use the recirculated air function).
  • Change your air filters: Use HEPA filters in your HVAC system to help trap the particulate matter floating in the air.

If you can’t protect your entire home, choose one bedroom with a door you can close so that it is as safe as possible.

Seek medical attention when needed

Breathing in smoke from fires or particulate air pollution can cause adverse health effects. If you have a health concern or migraine symptoms that won’t subside, call your doctor or seek medical attention. The longer you wait, the harder it may be to treat your symptoms.

 


Let us know!

Have you been impacted by the recent wildfires, or wildfires in the past? How have you managed your migraine symptoms during events like this?

 

1. Elser HRowland STMarek MS, et al. Wildfire smoke exposure and emergency department visits for headache: A case-crossover analysis in California, 2006–2020Headache20236394103. doi:10.1111/head.14442