Feeling the Weather: How Changing Air Pressure Impacts Your Body

Atmospheric pressure in the UK is beginning to shift as we move from the calm of lingering high-pressure systems into a more unsettled, lower-pressure pattern. This transition is typical for late autumn, but it can have a noticeable effect on how we feel day to day. When pressure drops, the air around us becomes less dense, and that change can trigger physical responses. Many people experience more headaches or migraines during low-pressure spells because expanding air pockets in the sinuses and inner ear increase discomfort. Others find their joints feel stiffer or more achy as tissues subtly expand in the lower pressure.

Low pressure also tends to bring darker skies, dampness, and a heavier atmosphere, all of which can influence mood and energy levels. It’s common to feel more sluggish or mentally foggy during these spells. As higher pressure returns and the weather settles, these symptoms often ease, giving the body a sense of relief. Paying attention to how you respond to these pressure swings can offer useful insight into your own sensitivity to the changing seasons.