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Migraines in Heatwaves
New Delhi: Summer heat and rising temperatures are making migraine symptoms worse for many people, especially during heatwaves when dehydration, bright sunlight and exhaustion combine to trigger severe headaches. Health experts say migraines are rarely caused by a single factor, but rather a mix of daily habits and environmental stressors that build up over time.
According to Expert factors such as poor sleep, skipped meals, stress, excessive screen exposure, sun exposure and extreme heat travel are among the most common but overlooked migraine triggers.
also points out that dietary habits like consuming processed food, chocolate, cheese and irregular eating patterns can further increase the risk of attacks.
Experts recommends maintaining fixed meal timings to help stabilise the body’s response. She suggests having breakfast around 9 am, lunch by 2 pm and dinner around 8 pm to avoid long gaps that may trigger headaches.
Hydration is another critical factor during summer months. The Expert advises drinking around two to three litres of water daily to prevent dehydration-related migraines. However, notes that individuals with kidney or heart conditions should consult a physician before increasing fluid intake.
Experts suggest including protein-rich foods such as tofu, paneer, lentils, eggs, chickpeas, quinoa, almonds and Greek yoghurt in daily meals. These foods may help support overall neurological health.
Expert also advises avoiding processed, packaged and deep-fried foods, which may worsen symptoms in sensitive individuals, further warns against consuming tea or coffee on an empty stomach, recommending coconut water as a better summer alternative for hydration.
Other dietary recommendations include eating whole fruits instead of juices, increasing daily intake of fruits and vegetables to around 400 grams, and reducing sugary drinks, energy beverages and alcohol. Excess sugar consumption, including chocolates and sweets, may also act as a trigger.
Regular physical activity such as walking, swimming, jogging, dance or aerobic exercise like Zumba can help improve overall health and may reduce migraine frequency.
Expert advise seeking medical attention if headaches are accompanied by vision changes, fever, neck stiffness, balance issues, dizziness, or if headaches occur more than twice a week or appear suddenly in a new pattern.
