Migraines and summer: how to cope with this time of year?
Migraine is the sixth most prevalent disease in the world. It affects around 12% of the population, particularly women. There are many triggers that can precipitate a migraine attack. These include atmospheric changes or specific weather conditions, particularly heat. In fact, we could say that in our daily practice, 50% of migraine sufferers would highlight the weather as a trigger, and more specifically, heat. It is true that there is no conclusive scientific evidence about the direct relationship between weather and migraines, probably due to the difficulty in conducting studies and the great variability of the population affected by migraines.
Summer and migraines: more than just a question of temperature
So, if heat is not responsible, what happens in summer to precipitate the increase in migraine attacks? People affected by migraines have a low tolerance for change, and in the summer there is a tendency for routines to be disrupted compared to other seasons of the year. Summer follows a different rhythm, and the body detects the consequences. It could be the sum of small changes in our daily routine that leads to an imbalance in migraine attacks. Of particular note:
Sleep schedules; it is common to go to bed later and sleep fewer hours, and lack of sleep is one of the main enemies of migraines.
Changes in work schedules before or after vacations (intensive workdays, work-life balance, etc.) or even stress derived from vacations (advance planning, pressure to “enjoy free time,” anticipation of vacations, the drastic change from work stress to vacation relaxation, etc.). Although stress may seem to decrease during vacations, it can take on new forms and trigger migraine attacks.
Dietary transgressions because in summer it seems that “anything goes,” you deserve everything, which leads to increased consumption of processed foods and alcoholic beverages. As a result, this can lead to dehydration due to: the abuse of foods rich in salt, alcohol consumption, low water intake, and excessive sweating due to extreme heat. This loss of fluids causes an electrolyte imbalance, which promotes migraine attacks.
Excessive exposure to the sun without adequate protection. Excessive brightness or sunlight increases intraocular pressure and has been linked to migraines in up to 61% of cases.
Recommendations from the Neurology team at Affidea Valencia
Therefore, for people prone to migraines, summer can be a bad time if appropriate measures are not taken. That is why the Neurology team at Affidea Valencia believes it is advisable to make the following recommendations for optimal migraine management at this time of year:
Drink plenty of fluids; at least 2.5 liters of water per day and eat fresh foods (salads, fruits, gazpachos, etc.).
Maintain stable routines: continue with your usual sports activities (avoiding peak sun exposure hours), take your prescribed medication, eat regularly and avoid prolonged fasting, rest well (it is advisable to sleep the necessary hours, try not to stay up late, and if necessary, take a nap of 15-20 minutes maximum).
Protect yourself from the sun (wear hats, light-colored clothing, sunglasses, and spend as much time as possible in shaded areas with little direct exposure).
Although self-awareness is a good tool for identifying triggers and acting accordingly. When it comes to migraines, having a professional by your side will improve your quality of life and help you manage your attacks more effectively. If you have any questions or your condition worsens, come to our clinic and we will try to find a solution or create a “summer plan” to prevent your migraines from getting out of control at this time of year.