With the intensifying summer heat, many people tend to experience headaches more often and with greater severity. The connection between heat and headaches is well established, and the hot season can exacerbate various health conditions.
Dr. Atul Prasad, Vice Chairman and Head of the Neurology Department at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, shed light on how rising temperatures can lead to headache triggers.
Dehydration:
High temperatures increase sweat loss, leading to dehydration, which is a major headache trigger. Dehydration reduces blood volume, potentially lowering blood flow and oxygen to the brain.
Heat-induced vasodilation:
Heat causes blood vessels to expand (vasodilation), which can increase pressure in the head and contribute to headache pain, especially in migraine-prone individuals.
Sun exposure:
Prolonged exposure to bright sunlight and glare can strain the eyes and brain, potentially triggering migraines or tension headaches.
Barometric pressure changes:
Often associated with hot weather fronts, changes in atmospheric pressure can affect people sensitive to these shifts, like migraine sufferers.
Sleep disruption:
Heat can interfere with sleep quality, and poor sleep is a well-known headache trigger.
Triggers for migraines:
For people with migraines, heat is a common environmental trigger, often combining with other factors like light, dehydration, or stress.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke:
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses, with headaches being a common symptom.
Increased sun exposure:
Bright sunlight and glare can trigger light-sensitive headaches (e.g., migraines).
Humidity and air quality:
High humidity and poor air quality (ozone, pollution) can worsen sinus pressure and headaches.
Tips to prevent heat-related headaches:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you’re not thirsty, especially if you’re outside or active.
- Avoid the hottest part of the day, usually between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Stay in the shade or indoors when it’s very hot.
- Use Cooling Measures such as old packs, cool showers, fans and air conditioning to keep cool.
- Wear sunglasses and a hat when outside to protect your eyes and head.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol as they can worsen dehydration.
- Monitor air quality and check pollution levels if you’re prone to sinus headaches
- Watch for warning signs like dizziness, dry mouth, or fatigue. They can mean you’re getting too hot or dehydrated.
Source: Hindustan Times
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
