Headaches can come on quickly in the heat and are particularly annoying on a nice summer day. Here you can find out how you can relieve and prevent headaches in the heat.
For many people, summertime means sun, beach and relaxing outdoors. But while most people enjoy the warm weather, some suffer from the unpleasant effects of the heat, especially headaches. According to the Federal Environment Agency, these can be triggered by high temperatures, strong sunlight or regional ozone levels.
Luckily, there are some effective quick-fix tips to relieve hot weather headaches so you can get back to enjoying your day.
Note: A severe headache after being in the sun can also be a sign of heat stroke, which is why it’s best to familiarize yourself with it. The same applies to the signs of sunstroke.
1. Drink enough to combat headaches in the heat
Dehydration is a major cause of headaches at high temperatures. Because when it’s hot, we excrete more fluid and salt through heavy sweating, according to the Headache Foundation. As the blood vessels dilate, blood pressure falls. Headaches can also occur as a result.
So make sure you drink enough water or unsweetened teas throughout the day to prevent or combat hot weather headaches. Make sure to drink small portions of fluids at regular intervals. This means the body can absorb the fluid better. To compensate for the loss of electrolytes, drinks such as mineral water or spritzers are recommended – of course you can also make electrolyte drinks yourself.
By the way: It’s a myth that it’s better to drink something warm than something cool when it’s hot:
2. Gently cooling helps against headaches in the heat
The Headache Foundation recommends using ice packs or ice packs as an immediate rescue measure against headaches in the heat. Wrap it in a cotton cloth and hold it briefly against the painful area. Be careful not to get too cold. As described in more detail below, sudden temperature changes can also lead to headaches.
3. Careful massages help against headaches
Acupressure or pressure massage can also provide relief from headaches. For a pressure massage, you can circle your fingertips over your temples while closing your eyes. Also make sure to breathe in and out calmly and deeply.
4. Be careful with essential oils
Essential oils are also considered an effective home remedy for headaches. However, on hot days, fragrances can make headaches worse, especially for people who are sensitive to smells. It is also better to use scented creams and other cosmetic products sparingly or avoid them entirely if you have a history of odor sensitivity.
5. Headaches in the heat: Avoid temperature fluctuations
Although air-conditioned rooms and cold showers provide short-term relief on hot days, they can also increase headaches. A rapid change in temperature, in which the ambient temperature changes by more than five degrees Celsius, places a great strain on the organism and, according to the Headache Foundation, can lead to headaches.
In addition, people tend to hunch 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 let your body get used to temperature changes slowly.
6. Sun protection for summer headaches
Headaches can also be triggered by strong sunlight. Migraine patients in particular react sensitively to the bright light. Because the strong incidence of light leads to irritation in the brain. Headaches can occur even in healthy people.
The Headache Foundation therefore recommends wearing sunglasses if possible. Headgear is used to protect the scalp and the nerves underneath. This also protects you from other heat-related problems, such as heat stroke or sunstroke, and prevents sunburn.
7. Headache in heat: Cold foods
Just as you should slowly get used to colder ambient temperatures, it is also important to consume cold foods and drinks with caution and in small portions. Otherwise the cold in the mouth can trigger a cold stimulus, which leads to what is known as brain freeze. The Headache Foundation therefore recommends leaving cold things in your mouth and warming them up before you swallow them.
Edited by Freya Petersen
Read more on Techzle\.com:
- 7 mistakes you shouldn’t make when it’s hot
- Headaches after exercise: causes and what helps
- Isotonic drinks: effects and how useful they really are
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