INTRODUCTION Primary headache disorders, including tension-type headaches (TTH) and migraines, are highly prevalent and pose a significant socio-economic burden. Environmental triggers, such as weather changes, are commonly believed to provoke these headaches.
METHODS This study aims to explore the role of geomagnetic activity as a potential trigger for TTH and migraines. Using Google Trends data, we tracked public interest in the search terms “migraine” and “headache” in Ukraine from 2019 to 2023. We analyzed the Ap index, which measures geomagnetic activity, alongside the search data to explore potential correlations.
RESULTS A total of 261 observations were made. The analysis revealed a negative correlation between the popularity of search queries for “migraine” and “headache” and geomagnetic activity, with increased search interest during periods of low geomagnetic activity. TTH patients were found to be more sensitive to low geomagnetic activity compared to those with migraines, suggesting different pathophysiological mechanisms between these two types of headaches. While the correlation is statistically significant, it remains relatively weak, indicating that geomagnetic fluctuations may contribute to headache triggers but are not the sole factor.
CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest a potential link between geomagnetic activity and the incidence of primary headaches, with TTH being more responsive to these fluctuations than migraines. The study underscores the need for further research into the impact of geomagnetic activity on human health and headache disorders.
WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ON THIS TOPIC Primary headache disorders, such as tension-type headaches (TTH) and migraines, are commonly triggered by environmental factors, but the role of geomagnetic activity remains underexplored despite its known effects on human health, like circadian rhythms and blood pressure.
WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS This study identifies a significant negative correlation between low geomagnetic activity and increased public interest in headache-related terms, suggesting that geomagnetic fluctuations may act as environmental triggers for headaches, particularly TTH. It highlights distinct sensitivities between TTH and migraines to geomagnetic changes and demonstrates the utility of Google Trends as a tool for exploring public health patterns related to environmental factors.
HOW THIS STUDY MIGHT AFFECT RESEARCH, PRACTICE OR POLICY This study highlights geomagnetic activity as a potential environmental trigger for primary headaches, encouraging further research into its role and distinct impacts on TTH and migraines. It underscores the utility of tools like Google Trends for public health surveillance, offering insights for healthcare practices and policy development to better address headache prevention.
