Migraine is a common neurological problem characterized by episodes of headaches. According to estimates community prevalence of migraines is between 15%-25%, being more common in women. Apart from throbbing headache that lasts between 4hrs- 72hrs, migraine patients also suffer from nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity and sound sensitivity. Some patient develop sensory symptoms in eyes, hands and also weakness which is called aura.
As per global disease burden study, migraine is third most common health issue in the world.
Pathology of migraine is broadly hypothesized as hypersensitivity of hypothalamus making patients sensitive to various physical and environmental triggers. Most common triggers are lack of sleep, missing meals, too much exercise, emotional stress, bright lights, loud sounds, specific smells, hormonal changes, menustration , dehydration, certain food like- caffeine, chocolates, cheese, pickles, processed meat. Climatic changes like heat, humidity and bright sun are very important triggers.
According to few studies emergency visits for migraine increase during summer. Heat, dehydration, bright light, poor oral intake and relatively less sleep in summer are main triggers for migraine in summer. Due to global warming Summers in India have become merciless and can leave people with plenty of health issues and migraine is no different.
Here are some tips to avoid migraine in summers.
Keep yourself hydrated:
Always carry a bottle of water when outdoors. 2.5-3litres of water intake is necessary, except in certain health situations which demands water intake restriction.
Manage diet: Replace coffee, red wines, chocolates, cheese with fresh summer fruits and vegetables like mangoes, watermelons, cucumbers, leafy vegetables. Resist temptation to eat trigger foods.
Don’t forget you hats and shades:
Hats provide cooling and shades avoid bright lights which is a very common trigger for migraine.
Cosmetics: Which choosing sunscreen go for fragrance free products.
Maintaining moderate AC temperature: 25-27degree Celsius is ideal temperature for human body.
Maintaining strict routine:
Don’t get off schedule for your sleep and meals.Even while on vacation try to not skip meals.
Show some respect to Sun: whenever possible, plan exercise and outdoor activities early morning or in evening to avoid dehydration. Avoid strenuous exercise in sun to prevent heat exhaustion.
Simplify work, manage time wisely, delegate extra work to others, take a break when you feel overwhelmed, find time for yourself, relax.
What to do during an attack of migraine: Find a quiet , dark place to relax, hydrate – drink a tall glass of water, apply cold compress to your head, take medication- either over the counter medication like Paracetamol, Diclofenac or Naproxen, or the ones prescribed by your physician.
There is no way to avoid every headache, but we can take steps to minimize them. Be observant of triggers and don’t obsess over them. Summer is time with many opportunities for family time, fun and vacations. With right steps try to enjoy summertime to fullest!
This article is authored by Dr Soniya Tambe, Consultant Neurologist, DM(Neurology), Headache management online course( Mayo Clinic), Kauvery Hospital Bangalore
