GETTING MORE MIGRAINES?

Learn how to prevent and treat summer headaches

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People that experience migraines know they can hit anytime, anywhere. But if you notice they’re more frequent or intense in summer, there are a few reasons why that could be happening. GP Dr Preeya Alexander explains...

TRIGGERS

About 20 per cent of people will experience a migraine in their lives – a type of headache that’s usually throbbing on one side of the head and is accompanied by symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light.

“It’s [thought] that increased exposure to intense sunlight during summer months may trigger migraines,” says Dr Alexander. “Another theory is that warmer weather leads to sweating and dehydration, and it’s known that dehydration can act as a migraine trigger. When it’s warmer we tend to sweat more, and if we are active as well, then we are likely to lose more fluid through sweat.”

Other possible triggers include overheating, humidity, or too much time spent in the sun.

PREVENTION

Some migraines can be prevented by avoiding certain triggers. You can avoid dehydration-related migraines by drinking plenty of water, especially if you’re sweating more than normal. Reduce the amount of caffeinated drinks and alcohol you consume, as they’re dehydrating.