Do you ever feel your migraine is more frequent or severe during summer? You are not alone. That is because the heat can actually worsen migraines. However, all you need to do to manage the same is be mindful of a few things.
Stressing the same, Dr Vishakha Shivdasani, took to Instagram and said that “Even 1% dehydration can actually trigger migraines”, adding that before you pop that pill for relief, “make sure to hydrate well – drink lots of water. Add rock salt and lemon to replenish the electrolytes”.
Dr Shivdasani further shared some other causes of adverse migraines in summer: “Other common causes for recurrent migraines can be nutrient deficiencies, especially iron, magnesium, and vitamin D. These can play a major role in migraine flare-ups. So make sure to get these corrected before being dependent just on painkillers.”
Speaking with indianexpress.com, Dr Pradyumna Oak, Director, Neurology, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital said that migraine cases may indeed increase during summers for some individuals. “This is primarily due to factors such as higher temperatures, humidity, and longer daylight hours, which can contribute to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and altered sleep patterns — all potential migraine triggers,” he explained.
What is the link between dehydration and migraines?
“Dehydration can cause migraines as it leads to a reduced blood supply to the brain, causing blood vessels to narrow and subsequently expand, resulting in headaches and migraines,” explained Dr Oak.
Common causes of migraines
Dr Oak shared common causes of migraines as:
1. Stress
2. Hormonal changes
3. Sleep disturbances
4. Certain foods and beverages
5. Caffeine withdrawal
6. Weather changes
7. Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
Ways to eliminate or reduce migraine triggers
Dr Oak shared common ways to eliminate or reduce migraine triggers as:
1. Identifying and avoiding specific food or drink triggers
2. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
3. Practicing stress management techniques, such as meditation or yoga
4. Staying hydrated and maintaining electrolyte balance
5. Gradually reducing caffeine intake to avoid withdrawal symptoms
Lifestyle changes to help deter migraines
Dr Oak shared natural ways or lifestyle changes to help control or deter migraines as:
1. Regular exercise to promote blood circulation and reduce stress
2. A balanced diet rich in magnesium, riboflavin, and omega-3 fatty acids
3. Proper hydration to prevent dehydration-related migraines
4. Practicing relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety
5. Creating a sleep-conducive environment and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
Treatment for migraines
To prevent migraine, patients can figure out the pattern of a headache alongside the triggers. Dr Kishore KV, Consultant Neurologist and Epileptologist, SPARSH Hospital said it is important to maintain a ‘headache diary’. The dairy must contain all the episodes of a headache starting from: when did the patient get a headache, how long it lasted for, severity of the ache, and the before and after effects. This can help evaluate the condition better and is more efficient”.
Below are treatment for migraines shared by Dr KV:
Abortive treatment: This approach tends to stop migraine once it has started
Preventive and prophylactic therapy: This approach involves prescribing medications to the patients even before the onset of a migraine attack. This approach can help patients reduce the frequency of future headaches.
Pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments: When patients are able to identify the triggers, most of the headaches can be controlled.
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