Migraine is one of the world’s most common health conditions and the most common neurological disease with environmental triggers. A recent survey by the National Headache Foundation of the United States presented data that the specific weather triggers for migraines. It is may include temperature changes, high humidity, bright lights, sun glare, high winds, stormy weather, and more.
If you’re prone to migraines and have lived in Bali for a while, you must have had your share of migraine headaches. It is usually triggered by the extreme heat and humidity that happens to be a part of island life. Some days more intense than the other.
Through this article, we would like to share ways of managing weather-related migraines. Especially on the hottest and most humid Bali days. Check the weather forecast regularly and manage your triggers by implementing expert tips as follows.
Know the triggers of your migraines and plan your day wisely
Orrin Devinsky, M.D., a neurologist at New York University, explained that if you recognize a consistent pattern in which certain weather changes trigger migraines, then it is highly essential that you take better care during that time by avoiding your triggers.
Although you are indeed unable to manage the weather, you are in control of how you plan your day(s) around the weather, at least to a certain degree.
In Bali, planning your activities around the weather would mean avoiding spending much time outdoors during extreme heat or on extremely bright days. Staying in all day might not be an option. You can opt for the less hot parts of the day to do what needs to be done outside the house.
Stay Hydrated
Following the above tip, Dr. Devinsky also suggested drinking plenty of water during the extreme weather that might trigger migraine attacks. Dehydration may be a contributing factor in migraines triggered by heat.
Furthermore, The American Migraine Foundation explained that about 33% of people who suffer from migraines admitted that dehydration is indeed a trigger. Therefore, during extreme weather on the tropical island, make sure that your water intake reaches at least 2 liters per day.
Keep your over the counter medicines for migraines handy!
When you know that the weather seems to trigger migraines for you, but you still need to spend time in the heat, then at least keep your medicine handy. If you experience any of the early symptoms of migraine, you may want to take your medication immediately to help avoid or lessen the severity of the migraine.
Say yes to sunglasses and hats!
When you go out in extremely hot weather, you can have good pair of sunglasses and a big hat. And while you’re at it, don’t hesitate to have fun exploring and deciding on your style. Who knows it contributes to your feel-good hormones. Those are always good for you!
Sleep hygiene is key!
When you know that the weather is already making you more prone to migraine attacks, it becomes even more crucial to keep a regular sleep schedule that allows you to get a minimum of 7-8 hours of good sleep. By avoiding additional triggers, you can manage the weather-related migraines more effectively.
Related article: What Causes Sinus Headaches and the Relief
We sincerely hope that the above tips can help you manage the weather-related migraines that you (tend to) suffer. If you have three or more migraines per week despite the weather, persistent migraines, or migraines that require you to take pain relievers (almost) every day, please make sure to see a doctor. We’re here 24/7 at Prime Plus Medical in Canggu if you need us.
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