The scorching heat in the Washington, DC area may be causing more headaches and migraines than usual, according to local doctors.
The scorching heat in the Washington, DC area may be causing more headaches and migraines than usual, according to local doctors.
“Heat can definitely cause headaches,” says Dr. Rachel Marquez, an adult and family medicine physician at Kaiser Permanente in Virginia.
She says many of her patients tend to get worse headaches in the summer, with dehydration being the main culprit.
“You might be drinking the same amount of water you normally drink, but if you’re outside and it’s hot and you’re sweating, you need to drink more water,” Marquez said.
She recommended keeping electrolyte drinks on hand or adding supplements to your water.
Marquez also said that too much sun exposure can be a trigger for patients who are photosensitive, and sunburn can also cause headaches, so wear sunscreen or find shade.
Marquez said a heatstroke headache can feel like a dull ache or pressure throughout the head, but a migraine is a sharp, throbbing pain accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light and noise.
If you get a heat-related headache or migraine, find an air-conditioned spot indoors to cool down, she says. Take Tylenol, ibuprofen, or a prescription migraine medication. A cool, damp towel may also provide some relief.
“When you put it on your neck or forehead, it helps reduce fever and body temperature a little bit and relieve headaches,” she said.
A headache can be an early symptom of heat stroke. Another heat stroke.
“These are signs that you might be experiencing a bit of a problem with your heat exposure,” Marquez says. “Be aware of these signs and take care of yourself and your health.”
If your headache lasts for more than 24 hours or occurs frequently, consult your doctor.
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