If you’ve noticed that you get headaches when the weather warms up, it may not be just your imagination. Warm weather can trigger headaches in individuals who are sensitive to certain factors.
The good news is that you can take steps to prevent headaches when the temperature outside rises, and Dr. Samuel I. Fink can help you manage your symptoms. Dedicated to providing the best internal medicine in Tarzana, California, Dr. Fink provides comprehensive, patient-centered care to help you optimize your health.
Have you been struggling with headaches and noticed warm weather as a trigger?
Dehydration is one of the most common reasons people experience headaches in warm weather. As temperatures rise, so does the body's need to stay hydrated. Sweating, whether from exercise or from being outdoors in the heat, increases the body’s water loss. This can quickly lead to dehydration if you aren’t careful.
Dehydration decreases the body’s blood volume, which impacts blood vessels and forces the heart to work harder to supply the brain and other organs with oxygen. This added strain can cause a headache, often described as a dull, throbbing pain in the temples or the back of the head.
Weather brings on changes in barometric pressure, and this is a well known cause of weather-related headaches. Sudden changes in weather, which are common in the transition from spring to summer, can trigger headaches in individuals who are particularly sensitive to these changes.
Barometric pressure changes can cause imbalances in the body’s sinuses and fluids, leading to headaches that may feel like pressing or tightening around the head.
Being outside when temperatures are high can lead to heat exhaustion, a condition that not only causes headaches but can also include symptoms like nausea, dizziness, muscle cramps, and extreme fatigue.
Heat exhaustion happens when the body overheats and struggles to cool itself down, typically through sweating. If the body reaches a point where it can no longer effectively regulate temperature, it can lead to a heat stroke, a more severe condition.
If you have a history of migraines, bright sunlight during warm weather can trigger headaches. The intense light can stimulate the brain in a way that activates the pathways leading to migraine headaches. Wearing sunglasses and hats to shield your eyes and face when out in direct sunlight can help reduce this risk.
Make hydration a top priority, especially before heading outdoors. Drinking water throughout the day is crucial, and it’s also a good idea to consume beverages that replenish electrolytes if you’re particularly active or sweating heavily.
If it’s hot out, try to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day, typically from late morning until late afternoon. If you have to venture outdoors, seek shade regularly, wear loose and breathable clothing, and take frequent breaks to cool down.
Wear sunglasses and hats whenever you’re outside. Choose sunglasses that offer UV protection to reduce glare and protect your eyes from harmful rays and sensitivity to light.
Being aware of weather forecasts can help you prepare for changes that might bring on headaches. If you’re sensitive to shifts in barometric pressure, planning indoor activities during major weather changes can be beneficial.
These steps can get head pain under control, but if you’re concerned about your headaches contact us for more personalized strategies for a headache-free summer. Dr. Fink is here to help you manage your health effectively, no matter the season.
