With the summer heat ramping up, a lot of folks find themselves dealing with more severe and frequent headaches. There's a clear connection between headaches and high temperatures, and the summer months can really aggravate certain health issues. In a chat with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Atul Prasad, the vice chairman and head of neurology at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, shared insights on how the heat of summer can lead to headaches.

Lack of hydration:

When temperatures rise, we tend to sweat more, which can cause dehydration—a common cause of headaches. Dehydration decreases blood volume, which might reduce the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain.

Vasodilation caused by heat:

When it's hot, blood vessels widen (a process called vasodilation), which can raise pressure in the head and lead to headache discomfort, particularly for those who are prone to migraines.

Exposure to sunlight:

Extended time spent in bright sunlight and glare can put a strain on your eyes and brain, which might lead to migraines or tension headaches.

Variations in barometric pressure:

Changes in atmospheric pressure, commonly linked to hot weather fronts, can impact individuals who are sensitive to these fluctuations, such as those who experience migraines.

Sleep disturbances:

High temperatures can disrupt your sleep, and lack of quality rest is a common cause of headaches.

Factors that can cause migraines:

For those who suffer from migraines, heat is a frequent environmental trigger that often works alongside other elements such as bright lights, dehydration, or stress.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two serious conditions caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures:

Extended time spent in high heat can result in heat-related health issues, and headaches are a frequent sign of this.

More time in the sun:

Intense sunlight and glare can cause headaches in people who are sensitive to light, such as migraines.

Moisture levels and air cleanliness:

Elevated humidity levels and bad air quality, like ozone and pollution, can increase sinus pressure and trigger headaches.

Ways to avoid headaches caused by heat:

• Make sure to drink lots of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty, especially when you’re outdoors or being active. Try to steer clear of the hottest hours, typically from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stay in the shade or indoors when temperatures soar. Use cooling methods like ice packs, cool showers, fans, or air conditioning to stay comfortable. Don’t forget to wear sunglasses and a hat when you’re outside to shield your eyes and head. Cut back on caffeine and alcohol since they can make dehydration worse. Keep an eye on air quality and pollution levels if you’re susceptible to sinus headaches. Be alert for signs like dizziness, dry mouth, or fatigue, as these can indicate you’re overheating or becoming dehydrated.

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