Not all headaches are bad — here’s when they become a red flag

Dr Manisha said that the first step is identifying your triggers and making amendments. Eating home cooked meals and staying away from alcohol, smoking and excess oily and fried foods is a must.

When do headaches become red flags?

According to Dr Rajeev Gupta, Director of Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, exposure to extreme heat or environmental stressors can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, both well-known culprits for headaches. “While mild headaches here and there are not causes of concern, experiencing headaches every day is. It suggests that your body is constantly under stress, potentially leading to chronic ailments, electrolyte imbalances, and even vascular changes in the brain,” he said.

“As our bodies lose fluids through sweating, it disrupts the delicate balance of electrolytes crucial for various functions, including brain function. This disruption can manifest as a throbbing headache,” he explained.

Experiencing headaches every day is a cause for concern (Source: Freepik)

Heat and stress doesn’t just affect hydration; it can also impact your blood vessels. Dr Gupta explains that heat can cause dilation of blood vessels in the brain, contributing to headache symptoms. Imagine your brain like a complex network of pipes. When these pipes expand excessively due to heat, it can lead to pain.

Daily headaches significantly impact your quality of life and might indicate underlying health issues that require medical attention.

How can you prevent them?

Dr Gupta offers valuable advice to prevent and alleviate heat-induced headaches:

Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of cool fluids throughout the day to stay hydrated. Water is your best friend, but electrolyte-rich beverages can also be helpful.

Seek Shade and Cool Down: Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Find shade, take breaks in air-conditioned spaces, or use fans to cool down your body.

Sleep and Relaxation: Ensure proper sleep hygiene and adequate rest. A well-rested body is better equipped to handle heat stress.

Ditch the Dehydrating Drinks: Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, as these can contribute to dehydration and worsen headaches.

Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses to reduce glare and minimize eye strain, which can also contribute to headaches.

Prevention is the best medicine. By incorporating these tips into your summer routine, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting a headache from the heat.

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