Do Migraines in Kids Get Worse in the Summer? Here’s What the Research Says
As a pediatrician and a mom, I’ve noticed a pattern: every time the seasons shift, I start seeing more kids with migraines. And I’m not alone. Many parents of migraine-prone children report patterns tied to changes in weather, daylight, and daily routines. But is there actual science to support this?
The answer is: yes… sort of.
What the Research Says
Research on seasonal and weather-related migraine patterns shows mixed results, but several studies highlight factors that may increase migraine frequency, particularly in certain individuals.
A study published in Cephalalgia found that temperature changes, light exposure, and even time shifts can increase migraine frequency—especially in people with migraine with aura or sensitivity to environmental changes. The American Migraine Foundation also notes that weather fluctuations are among the most commonly reported migraine triggers.
In addition to individual triggers like stress, specific foods, sleep disruption, and dehydration, seasonal transitions often bring a combination of factors that can tip the balance for kids already prone to migraines.
Why Summer Can Be a Peak Migraine Season for Kids
While fall and spring are classically associated with migraine flares due to changing barometric pressure and allergens, summer is often overlooked—and it can be just as problematic. Some common summer migraine triggers in children include:
Disrupted routines due to lack of school structure
Irregular or insufficient sleep
Dehydration during outdoor activity or travel
Skipped meals or inconsistent eating patterns
Increased screen time
Heat sensitivity and longer daylight hours
These changes, especially when combined, can significantly increase the risk of migraine episodes in children.
Pediatrician-Backed Tips to Help Prevent Seasonal Migraine Flares
Thankfully, some simple routine adjustments can go a long way in preventing seasonal migraine triggers. Here are a few pediatrician-recommended strategies:
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even during summer break
Encourage regular hydration throughout the day
Avoid long gaps between meals by offering snacks with protein and complex carbs
Track headaches in a journal or app to spot patterns and potential triggers
Limit screen time and encourage regular breaks in low-light or calm environments
These preventive steps can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines for many kids.
When to Consider a Preventive Supplement
If your child experiences frequent migraines—especially around seasonal changes—it may be time to talk to your pediatrician about a more proactive approach. Many healthcare providers recommend certain nutrients for migraine prevention, based on clinical studies and expert consensus.
That’s why we created Migrakids at MamaDoc Rx. It’s a pediatrician-formulated supplement made with ingredients that are commonly recommended by medical professionals to support migraine prevention in kids and teens, including:
Magnesium, which may reduce migraine frequency and severity
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), important for mitochondrial health and energy production
CoQ10, a well-studied antioxidant linked to fewer migraine days
Vitamin D, which is often deficient in children with migraines
We formulated it with busy families in mind—using only ingredients we would recommend to our own patients and children.
Learn More
If your child struggles with migraines, especially during seasonal transitions, you’re not alone—and there are science-backed tools that can help. Check out Migrakids to learn more about this innovative product and how we’re helping families take a smart, preventative approach to migraine care.