How to prevent headaches when the weather changes

Genetics or certain imbalances in the brain can cause headaches. Changes in temperature, hot and cold, and extreme weather can also be causes. Weather-related headache triggers for some people include changes in humidity and temperature, storms, tropical depressions, and dusty environments.

Sometimes, the body’s response to heat can also cause this condition. Heat headaches are aggravated by weather-related stimuli such as bright sunlight, high humidity, and sudden changes in barometric pressure. Here are some ways to avoid headaches when the weather is unpredictable.

Drink enough water

Water makes up the majority of the body, averaging about 60%. The amount of water in the body can vary depending on age, gender, and hydration level. Excessive urination or sweating leads to dehydration, which is also one of the symptoms of heat or exhaustion headaches. It causes the body’s tissues to contract, including the brain, putting pressure on the nerves, leading to headaches. Staying hydrated is important if you find increased humidity to be a factor.

Avoid this headache trigger by staying hydrated. Healthy adults drink about 6 to 8 glasses of water, or 1.5 to 2 liters, each day. Drink plenty of water, especially when you are outside in hot weather or sweating a lot. Sports drinks and electrolyte drinks can also help you stay hydrated and maintain electrolyte balance when exercising indoors.

Avoid being outdoors in the heat

On hot days, people should limit outdoor activities during peak hours and hottest temperatures, around 12-15 hours. If going outside, seek shade to reduce exposure to high temperatures.

Wear appropriate clothing

In addition to protective accessories such as baseball caps and sunglasses, wearing light, airy clothing in hot weather can also be beneficial. In cold weather, you should keep your body warm by wearing gloves, socks, and scarves to help prevent exposure to cold air that causes headaches.

Eat healthy

A balanced diet, rich in foods with high water content can also help. Supplement with foods that are full of essential nutrients.

Foods rich in magnesium can help relieve symptoms and prevent headaches because it is a muscle relaxant. Magnesium blocks pain receptors in the brain, preventing blood vessels from narrowing and causing headaches. Dark green vegetables, fish, soybeans, avocados, and bananas also provide the body with this nutrient. Avoid excessive caffeine, tea, alcohol, or tobacco, as these are factors that can aggravate headaches.

Cold compress

If you have a heat-related headache or feel your body temperature rising, apply an ice pack to bring your body temperature back to normal. In some cases, a warm bath or shower can relieve a headache caused by a change in weather. A warm bath or shower may also be more comfortable.

Exercise appropriately

Physical activity can increase blood circulation, promoting increased levels of feel-good chemicals in the brain. This helps block pain signals. Walking, cycling, and swimming are suitable exercises.