Beware Of Migraine During Hot Weather, This Is Doctor Saraf's Advice

Hot weather illustration. (Freepic)

JAKARTA - The weather that has been getting hotter lately not only makes the body tired easily, but can also trigger various health problems, one of which is migraines.

Excessive exposure can cause the body to lose fluids more quickly, disrupt blood circulation, and eventually cause painful side-by-side headaches.

A neurologist who graduated from the University of Indonesia, dr. Zicky Yombana, Sp.S, explained that the main step to prevent migraines during hot weather is to avoid direct exposure to heat.

"As much as possible protect yourself from heat sources. Use a hat, umbrella, or sunglasses when doing outdoor activities," he said in Jakarta.

According to dr. Zicky, this simple protection helps the body stay cool and prevents direct sunlight which can trigger headaches.

He also emphasized the importance of maintaining body hydration, by drinking about two liters of water or the equivalent of eight glasses every day. Lack of fluids, he said, can disrupt blood flow in the brain and trigger migraines.

In addition to maintaining liquid intake, people are advised to avoid certain foods and drinks that are known to trigger migraines, such as MSG foods, cheese, chocolate, and caffeinated drinks. Overconsumption can worsen symptoms in sensitive people.

Sufficient rest is also an important factor. Zicky said, sleeping for 78 hours per night helps the body stay fit and reduce stress that can worsen migraine conditions.

"A lack of rest will be easier to experience stress, and stress is one of the triggers for quite strong migraines," he said.

Furthermore, the doctor who practices at Brawijaya Hospital added that migraines during hot weather generally occur because the body is dehydrated. This condition causes blood vessels in the brain to widen, thereby increasing pressure and causing a pulsed sensation in the head.

"When the temperature is about high, the blood vessels react widening. This makes the pressure on the head increase and causes a sense of niche," he explained.

Strong sunlight can also stimulate nerves in the head and exacerbate pain. In addition, extreme heat can interfere with a person's sleep patterns, which ultimately reduces the quality of rest and increases stress, two factors that trigger migraines.

Citing the Health report, migraines are a type of recurrent headache with moderate to severe intensity, which is often accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light, nausea, and vomiting. Although it feels disturbing, this condition is quite common and can be controlled with a healthy lifestyle and good stress management.