After a short spell of clearer skies, Delhi’s air quality worsened again on Thursday, with the city’s overall AQI climbing to 264, squarely in the “poor” category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Unfortunately, forecasts suggest that the situation will deteriorate further to the “very poor” zone in the coming days.A dense layer of smog has settled over much of the capital, and pollution-related illnesses are being reported every day. Many residents have also complained of migraine attacks over the past week, prompting the question: can pollution trigger migraines?To understand this better, we spoke to Dr. Khusboo Hatekar, Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology, DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri Pune.What’s Behind Delhi’s Rising Air Pollution?Meteorologists attribute the worsening pollution to a western disturbance that has slowed wind speed and created atmospheric stagnation, ideal conditions for pollutants to accumulate.This stagnant air has intensified health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, senior citizens, and people with chronic respiratory conditions. Doctors have urged Delhiites to reduce outdoor exposure, particularly during early morning and late evening hours when pollution levels are at their peak.What Is a Migraine?A migraine is a neurological condition marked by severe, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. It often comes with nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light or sound. Attacks can last anywhere from a few hours to several days, often disrupting daily routines.In some individuals, warning signs known as auras appear before or during a migraine episode. These may include visual disturbances like flashes of light or blind spots, as well as tingling sensations on one side of the face or body and even temporary difficulty speaking, as described by the Cleveland Clinic.Can Air Pollution Trigger Migraines?Air pollution is now increasingly recognised as a powerful environmental trigger for migraine — a complex neurological disorder that causes recurring, often debilitating headaches. The connection lies in how pollutants interact with the brain’s blood vessels and nerves, setting off inflammatory reactions that heighten pain sensitivity.The Neurological LinkAccording to Dr. Khusboo Hatekar, “Migraine pathophysiology primarily involves activation of the trigemino-vascular system. This system includes the trigeminal nerve and associated blood vessels in the meninges.”Under normal circumstances, this system remains stable. But when it becomes overactive, it releases neuropeptides such as substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). These chemicals cause inflammation and dilation of blood vessels, leading to the throbbing pain typical of migraines.How Polluted Air Affects the Brain?Common air pollutants like fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), ozone (O₃), carbon monoxide (CO), and sulphur dioxide (SO₂) can activate this same system. When inhaled, these pollutants enter the body through the lungs or nasal passages and create oxidative stress and inflammation in the nervous system.Dr Hatekar said, “This process triggers immune cells in the brain known as microglia, which then release pro-inflammatory molecules that heighten nerve sensitivity and increase the likelihood of migraine attacks.”Beyond the Brain: Blood Flow and HormonesAir pollution can also disturb normal cerebral blood flow and alter levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, a key regulator of mood and pain. At the same time, exposure to polluted air stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, the body’s stress response network, which further interacts with the trigeminal system to intensify symptoms.Research has shown a clear association between spikes in air pollution and higher numbers of migraine-related emergency room visits, underlining how environmental conditions can influence neurological health.The Role of Weather and Genetic SensitivityWeather changes often accompany high pollution days, and together, they can worsen the risk of migraines. Fluctuations in barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity, combined with exposure to pollutants, can make certain individuals more prone to attacks.Some people may also be genetically predisposed to this heightened sensitivity, which explains why not everyone responds to pollution in the same way.The Broader Health ImpactDr Hatekar suggested, for people who frequently suffer from migraines, exposure to polluted air can lead to more frequent and intense episodes. This not only reduces their quality of life but also increases the burden on healthcare systems due to repeated consultations and treatments.Experts believe that improving air quality through strong public health measures could significantly reduce migraine cases in heavily polluted urban regions.Air pollution appears to trigger migraines through a mix of neuroinflammatory, vascular, and autonomic mechanisms. It activates the trigemino-vascular system, increases oxidative stress, and disrupts the body’s natural balance.This growing understanding reveals how deeply environmental factors influence neurological conditions and why controlling pollution is not only a matter of clean air but also of reducing the hidden toll it takes on our brains.
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