This Halloween Weekend Is a Perfect Storm for Migraine Attacks

Candy, costumes, and... migraine? For the more than 40 million Americans living with migraine, Halloween can bring flashing lights, strong scents, and disrupted routines — all potential triggers. Add in the daylight saving time change, which can throw off sleep and schedules, and this weekend can be especially tough for those living with the neurological disease.

The nonprofit Association of Migraine Disorders (AMD) encourages people to be mindful of how seasonal changes and holiday activities can affect their migraine symptoms.

Migraine is a complex neurological disease that affects people differently. For most, no single trigger will “cause” a migraine attack — but multiple triggers combined can increase the risk. Common migraine triggers include changes in sleep, disrupted routines, skipped meals, stress, bright or flickering lights, dehydration, and weather changes.

Migraine-Smart Strategies for Navigating Halloween Weekend

• Stick to your normal routine. Regular sleep and meal times help maintain stability.
• Stay hydrated and eat regularly. Avoid dehydration and skipped meals.
• Protect your senses. Limit exposure to flashing lights, strong scents, or loud environments when possible; take breaks if needed.
• Plan ahead. Have an exit strategy or a quiet space to retreat to if symptoms start.
• Keep your treatments handy. Bring medication or rescue options with you.
• Enjoy treats in moderation.

What About Chocolate?

Don’t feel guilty about indulging in a little Halloween candy. In AMD’s Spotlight on Migraine podcast, Dr. Anna Pace, neurologist and headache specialist at Mount Sinai, explained that eating chocolate likely doesn’t cause a migraine attack. It's more likely a person has a craving for chocolate while in the early phase of a migraine attack (the prodrome).

"It really is much less likely that the chocolate is setting off the headache so much as you’re already in the migraine process, and the craving is part of that," said Dr. Pace. "I tell people eat your chocolate liberally, in moderation, of course."

With preparation, balance, and awareness, people living with migraine can enjoy the festivities — and the extra hour of sleep — without letting migraine take over their Halloween weekend.

The Association of Migraine Disorders is a Rhode Island-based nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding the understanding of migraine and other headache disorders through research, education, and awareness. Learn more at www.migrainedisorders.org.