Summer is upon us and – for migraine sufferers – it may be time to exercise a little caution.
While migraines can happen at any time, headache experts say summer time is rife with potential triggers.
“Warmer weather can lead to potential complications of headache related to overheating, photophobia (aversion to light), or even increased potential for allergies,” says Dr. Vinod Krishnan, St. Elizabeth Physicians Neurology. “Taking a few steps to avoid or reduce the risk of exposure to these triggers can lead to a reduced headache burden and an enjoyable summer.”
In light of that, the American Headache Society recommends everyone ““ and particularly those prone to migraines and headaches ““ follow these tips:
- Stay hydrated and choose your beverages wisely. Dehydration is a major headache trigger. But while soda and iced tea may be tasty, the caffeine content can trigger headaches, as can the citrus in lemonade. Stick with water.
- Mind the sun. The summer sun is a major trigger for headaches. Protect yourself with wide-brimmed hats or a beach umbrella and cool yourself off with a bit of shade or a cool cloth on your neck.
- Skip the stinky stuff. Sun screens and bug sprays are mainstays of the season, but if you’re sensitive to fragrances, seek out fragrance-free products.
- Wear your shades. Protect your eyes from bright sunshine and glare with a pair of high-quality sunglasses with polarized lenses. If light is still a problem, add a hat to your ensemble.
- Stick to your schedule. Lazy summer days can wreak havoc on an otherwise regimented schedule and that can cause problems. Skipping meals and too much sleep can trigger migraines, so try to maintain your routine.
- Exercise caution. If you exercise outdoors or don’t have air conditioning, be mindful that you may have to modify your exercise routine on hot summer days.
- Get organized. Stress can lead to headaches. If you fall behind or feel overwhelmed after a long weekend, that can compound your stress. Plan ahead. Make lists, delegate chores and don’t save travel plans for the last minute. Planning ahead will not only help you avoid last minute scrambles, it will help you enjoy the summer more.
- Be sure to take a little quiet time for yourself every day and remember the words to the song, “Summer time, and the living is easy.”
