Why does solar magnetic activity cause headaches in humans?

Dr. Yelena Ovchinnikova, a neurologist, notes that headaches may affect some individuals during magnetic storms due to changes in vascular tone. Magnetic storms are disturbances in Earth’s magnetic fields caused by solar flares, which the body perceives as a stressor that alters vascular tone, leading to headaches. She explains, “Each person has their own sensitivity and autonomic nervous system. The effects of magnetic fields on humans have not been fully studied, but it has been established that there is a disruption in coordination between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. The body perceives changes in the magnetic field as a stressor, which alters vascular tone, and consequently, some people experience headaches.” According to her, some individuals compensate for these processes on their own. If blood pressure does not rise and the headache is moderate, it is acceptable to take a painkiller. She adds, “However, it is important to assess the severity of the headache on a scale from 0 to 10. If the pain reaches a level of 5, a painkiller should be taken. But if severe or unusual pain occurs, if there is a fever, or if photophobia develops, it is best to consult a doctor in such cases.”