Feeling a pounding headache on a scorching day? You might experience one when the sun is blazing or an excessive workout heats you up. These heat-induced headaches can disrupt your day, but you can keep them at bay with the right tips.
What you need to know:
What are heat headaches?
Heat headaches are more likely to occur during summer. Reasons include dehydration, environmental pollution, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, which are more common in hot weather. A heat headache causes a dull, thudding pain around the back of your head. Depending on the cause, the pain may become more intense and internal.
The connection between hot weather and headaches
A heat headache is caused by how your body responds to heat. Hot weather-related triggers of headaches and migraine include:
- Sun glare
- High humidity
- Bright light
- Sudden fall in pressure
When exposed to higher temperatures, the body needs more water to compensate for sweating, which can cause dehydration and trigger headaches and migraines as a response.
Symptoms of a heat headache
If you are experiencing a heat headache, you will experience additional symptoms like:
- Dizziness
- Muscle cramps or tightness
- Nausea
- An unquenchable thirst
On the other hand, if your headache or migraine is due to heat exposure without heat exhaustion, you might feel:
- A throbbing, dull pain in your head
- Tiredness
- Extreme sensitivity to light
- Dehydration
Preventing heat headaches
Here are some strategies that you can incorporate during the hot summer weather to prevent heat headaches:
Stay hydrated: The key to beating the heat
Instead of choosing sweetened juices, it is better to opt for natural options. Water, lemon, and coconut water are healthier alternatives to soda, tea, coffee, or carbonated drinks. Keeping a water bottle with you always is a great way to stay hydrated. If you feel uncomfortable from the heat, try placing a wet towel on your forehead, soaking your feet in cold water, or taking a cold shower. These simple methods can help you beat the chances of experiencing a heat headache.
Dress for the weather: Opt for breathable clothing
You can use an umbrella to avoid direct sunlight and sunglasses to avoid heat headaches. In addition, wear protective clothing such as a cap or a scarf. Wear cotton and loose-fitting clothing, as it helps in air ventilation. You can also carry a water bottle to stay hydrated and diminish the chances of experiencing a heat headache.
Seek shade and limit sun exposure
Plan your travel during the cooler part of the day. In the event of unavoidable travel, it is best to walk in the shade or remain in covered areas like offices or air-conditioned places. Use sunscreen before you step out into the sun to avoid sunburn. While indoors, draw the curtains during the day to avoid the sun’s direct rays from heating up your place.
You must try to adapt to the changing weather conditions. In severe heat, it is best to rest and allow your body to adjust to the rising temperature. If you still experience heat headaches, consult a doctor who can help you with a treatment plan.
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