For many of us in Hampton Roads, summertime means quintessential beach outings, outdoor barbecues, nature hikes, fireworks displays, and perhaps the occasional sunburn. However, for migraineurs, the summer season can lend itself to trouble without the right intervention.
Why are Migraines Common in Summer?
For many, the warmer weather, activities, and altered schedules can provoke a migraine attack. Many things can trigger a migraine attack and every migraineur’s triggers are unique. The summer season comes with a range of potential triggers for migraines, so it’s important to be prepared for any potential triggers that could interrupt your day.
Potential Summer Migraine Triggers
It’s impossible to predict every potential trigger for a migraine, but we do know some common triggers that tend to crop up around the summertime. They include:
Harsh scents or perfumes
Fragrances have always been a common migraine trigger. Strong environmental odors like gasoline at the pump, perfume, or other odors can trigger a migraine. Be careful with scented sunscreens or bug sprays. Look for fragrance-free products and stay away from areas that may have particularly strong smells. As many of us are aware, heat can often make bad smells more fragrant than they would’ve been traditionally, so consider this when planning your activities.
Fireworks
Loud noises and bright lights combine for this fan-favorite summer display. If you know you have issues with sound or bright lights, it may be a good idea to skip fireworks displays or wear protection like ear plugs.
Sunlight
While the sun can be a trigger for many migraineurs, that doesn’t mean you need to keep indoors on sunny summer days. Instead, try wearing large-brimmed hats, sun-protective clothing, visors, and optic-grade polarized sunglasses. Use umbrellas while at the beach or other outdoor activities.
Weather changes
While we cannot control the weather, we can plan ahead. Summer thunderstorms can cause changes in barometric pressure, which can trigger a migraine. Additionally, heat waves and pollen-related allergies can also crop up in the summer and trigger a migraine. To remain prepared, know before you go. Check the forecast before making plans for outdoor activities and look into your vacation destination’s temperature and weather patterns to be prepared for what could come.
Schedule changes
With schools letting out and vacations abound, summer comes with a shifting schedule that could spell trouble for a migraineur. For whatever reason, changing your routine may trigger a migraine attack, so it’s important to try and maintain or adapt to a new schedule as routines shift in the summer.
Sleep disruption
Similar to changes in our daily schedules, insufficient sleep or disrupted sleep can pose challenges for migraineurs. With new summer schedules, school letting out, and hot days keeping us up later than normal, these factors can trigger migraine attacks. Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule during the summer, even if your daily schedule has changed. Ensure you get enough sleep and restorative sleep in a cool, dark, and quiet environment.
Dehydration
Dehydration can cause an electrolyte imbalance that can also affect your migraine symptoms. Similarly, alcoholic drinks or caffeinated beverages can cause dehydration. In addition to drinking plenty of water throughout the summer, migraineurs may also want to drink beverages like Gatorade, Powerade, or coconut water to improve their electrolyte imbalance. Remember to replenish your fluids while performing activities outdoors, even if you are not exercising.
Heat
High temperatures can result in dehydration and may also lead to a migraine attack itself. Try staying in air-conditioned areas or packing water and ice packs if you’re planning to spend time outdoors. Opt for loose, breathable clothing, and remember to take breaks if you’re spending extended periods of time outdoors.
Overexertion
When we try to do too much, our body can sometimes have a rebound reaction, sort of like a reminder that we can’t always accomplish everything we plan for. During the summer, there is so much to do, so many things to look forward to, and so much to plan that it’s easy to overdo it. Remember to take time for yourself and take breaks, especially if you’re physically active outdoors with things like sports or gardening.
Summer Migraine Treatment in Hampton Roads, VA
Treatment for summer migraines remains consistent with treatments used at any other time of the year. Keeping a headache journal can help you determine which new triggers you may have during the summer and you can talk to your physician about abortive migraine medications, trigger avoidance, nerve blocks, Botox, or other preventative interventions.
“Preparation is key. Try to practice trigger avoidance and have an open attitude,” said board-certified neurologist, Maria Guina, MD of TPMG Neurology at Williamsburg. “If you know it’s going to be extra hot or that you’ll find yourself in a noisy place, plan ahead and make interventions to prevent a migraine attack.”
Don’t let the fear of migraines keep you indoors this summer. Embrace the activities you love by finding ways to incorporate migraine interventions into your summer plans. If you struggle with your migraine symptoms during the summer, seeing a neurologist may be helpful. For migraine treatment in Williamsburg and Newport News, contact TPMG Neurology for an appointment and enjoy a summer free from migraines.
About Maria Guina, MD
Maria Guina MD, is a fellowship trained, board certified neurologist who treats all neurological conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, Parkinson’s disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), seizures, epilepsies, stroke, migraines and other types of headaches, among other neurological disorders. Her special interests include epilepsy, Women’s health, neurotoxin treatment for spasticity, and movement disorders.
Dr. Guina practices at TPMG Neurology at Williamsburg.
