Headaches in the heat: 7 quick fix tips

Headaches can occur quickly in the heat and are particularly annoying on a sunny holiday day. Here’s how to relieve and prevent headaches.

For many people, summertime means sun, beach and relaxing outdoors. But while most rejoice in the warm weather, some suffer from the uncomfortable effects of the heat, particularly headaches. These are triggered, for example, by high temperatures, strong sunlight or increased ozone levels. Luckily, there are some effective quick fix tips to relieve a heat headache so you can get back to enjoying your day.

1. Drink enough to relieve headaches when it’s hot

Dehydration is one of the main causes of high temperature headaches. Because when it’s hot, we excrete more fluid and salt through heavy sweating, according to the Headache Foundation. As blood vessels dilate, blood pressure falls. Headaches can also occur as a result.

So make sure you’re drinking enough water or unsweetened teas throughout the day to prevent or combat a headache from the heat. Be sure to drink small portions of fluids at regular intervals. This way the body can absorb the liquid better. Mineral water or spritzers are recommended to compensate for the loss of electrolytes.

You can read about the amounts you should drink here:

2 to 4. Three tips against headaches in the heat

The Headache Foundation recommends cold packs or ice packs as an immediate emergency measure against headaches in the heat. Wrap this in a cotton cloth and only hold it briefly to the painful area.

Acupressure or pressure massage can also provide relief for headaches. For a pressure massage, you can circle your fingertips over your temples and close your eyes. Also, make sure to breathe in and out slowly and deeply.

Note: Essential oils are also considered an effective home remedy for headaches. On hot days, however, fragrances can make headaches worse, especially for people who are sensitive to smells. It is therefore better to use perfumed creams and other cosmetic products sparingly or avoid them altogether.

5. Headaches when it’s hot: Avoid temperature fluctuations

Although air-conditioned rooms and cold showers provide short-term relief on hot days, they can also promote headaches. Because a rapid change in temperature, in which the ambient temperature changes by more than five degrees Celsius, puts a great strain on the organism and, according to the Headache Foundation, can lead to headaches.

In addition, people tend to pull up their shoulders and tense their necks even when they feel cold for a short time. This tension can also cause headaches.

Therefore, avoid heavily air-conditioned rooms in summer and always slowly get your body used to temperature changes.

6. Sunscreen for hot headaches

Headaches in heat can also be triggered by strong sunlight. Migraine sufferers in particular are sensitive to the glaring light. Because the strong incidence of light leads to irritation in the brain. And it can also cause headaches in healthy people. The Headache Foundation therefore recommends wearing sunglasses if possible. A hat protects the scalp and the nerves underneath. In addition, you protect yourself from other heat complaints, such as heat stroke or sunstroke, and prevent burns.

7. Hot headache: Cold foods

Just as you should gradually get used to colder ambient temperatures, it is also important to take cold food and drinks with caution and in small portions. Otherwise, the cold in the mouth can trigger a cold stimulus, which leads to so-called brain freeze. The Headache Foundation therefore recommends leaving cold things in the mouth and warming them up there before swallowing them.