As temperatures rise across India, headaches become more frequent and intense. Often dismissed, they can be a sign that the body is struggling with heat, dehydration, or exhaustion. Ignoring headaches isn't always safe, as some may point to more serious conditions like heat stroke.
Not all summer headaches are created equal. According to Dr Usha Humbi, Consultant Neurologist at Narayana Health City, Bengaluru, heat-induced headaches are primarily triggered by dehydration. “When the body loses fluids faster than it can replenish, the brain temporarily shrinks due to fluid loss, pulling away from the skull and triggering pain,” she says.
When combined with prolonged exposure to heat, it could trigger headaches. Another culprit, says Dr Humbi, is heat exhaustion, which brings along symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. “Each of these can amplify the intensity of a headache. Besides, you cannot ignore the role of electrolyte imbalance, a common consequence of excessive sweating in hot weather,” she adds.
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Understanding when a headache is just a headache, and when it’s something more, is key to staying safe under the sun.
While most heat headaches resolve on their own with hydration and rest, certain red flags shouldn't be ignored. “If you experience persistent or severe pain, along with vomiting, confusion, fainting or a rapid heartbeat, it could point to heat stroke or another serious issue,” cautions Dr Humbi.
In such cases, immediate medical attention is critical. “Additionally, recurring headaches during hot weather should be brought up with a doctor to rule out underlying causes and to formulate a preventive strategy. Prevention, however, is both simple and effective. It is important to increase fluid intake, especially when outdoors, and to avoid alcohol and excess caffeine,” Dr Humbi says.
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Here are 5 ways, suggested by Dr Humbi, to avoid heat-induced headaches:
- Hydrate, then hydrate some more: Don’t wait until you're thirsty. Sip water throughout the day, and include electrolyte-rich drinks if you're sweating heavily.
- Dress for the weather: Opt for cotton or linen fabrics in light colours, which help reflect heat rather than absorb it.
- Limit time in peak sun: Try to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day (typically 12–4 PM). If you must go out, seek shade whenever possible.
- Cut back on caffeine and alcohol: Both act as diuretics, accelerating fluid loss and increasing your risk of dehydration-induced headaches.
- Listen to your body: Feeling dizzy or overly tired? Don’t push through it. Sit down, drink water, and cool off before resuming activities.
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