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Real members of MyMSTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does a change in the weather like a front moving in cause anyone to feel sick or if something is going on in your brain?

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Holly Springs, MS
November 3
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members responded to the question about weather changes affecting the body with strong agreement that shifting weather and barometric pressure... Read more

Members responded to the question about weather changes affecting the body with strong agreement that shifting weather and barometric pressure can trigger very real and painful symptoms. Several members shared experiences including migraines, heavy legs, full-body pain, nerve pain, spasticity flare-ups, and even vertigo triggered by wind without being outdoors. A recurring theme was that these symptoms can be severe enough to require rest or sleep to get through, and members offered each other warmth and validation throughout the discussion.

A MyMSTeam Member
November 3
A MyMSTeam Member

Not the first time ive read or heard that.

November 3
A MyMSTeam Member

This will sound weird, my vertigo acts up when it’s windy. I don’t even have to be outside.

November 3
A MyMSTeam Member

@A MyMSTeam Member mine doesn't either

November 3
MyMSTeam

Weather changes can absolutely affect how people with MS feel — and you're definitely not alone in noticing this! A MyMSTeam member shared: "Yesterday, my MS seemed to show its ugly head more. We had a storm system coming in... I woke up feeling a ton better today, and the sun is shining and beautiful out. Does anyone else Show Full Answer

Weather changes can absolutely affect how people with MS feel — and you're definitely not alone in noticing this! A MyMSTeam member shared: "Yesterday, my MS seemed to show its ugly head more. We had a storm system coming in... I woke up feeling a ton better today, and the sun is shining and beautiful out. Does anyone else notice things start acting up when the barometric pressure changes?"

Changes in barometric pressure (the weight of air pressing on your body) can trigger or worsen MS symptoms. This isn't just in your head — well, okay, it kind of is, but science backs it up. Here's why it happens with MS specifically:

- MS damages myelin, the protective coating around nerve cells, making them more sensitive to environmental changes
- Temperature shifts that come with weather fronts can disrupt how nerve signals travel in the brain and spinal cord
- Cold fronts can cause blood vessels to overreact and tighten, worsening symptoms like spasticity and pain
- Lower barometric pressure before storms may contribute to fatigue and other neurological symptoms Some practical ways to manage weather-related symptoms include:

- Staying indoors with air conditioning during hot, humid weather
- Bundling up well in cold temperatures, especially hands and feet
- Planning lower-activity days when a storm system is forecast
- Talking to your neurologist about vitamin D supplementation, as levels can drop in winter and may be linked to more frequent relapses

November 3

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