Aug 8, 2008 5:18 pm US/Central
Summertime Heat Causes Headaches For Many
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
It's summertime and the livin' is easy, but all that fun in the sun can be anything but fun for many of us. As CBS 2's Joanie Lum reports, the season of sunshine can be a real headache.
The heat of summer brings special discomfort to Whitney Lewis.
"I've always had headaches. During the rest of the year, it's OK, not great," Whitney said.
The intensity and pain she feels on a sunny day can make doing simple activities downright unbearable.
"Sometimes it will just be an absolute pounding headache, otherwise it's just like a dulling pain," Whitney said.
Headache specialist Dr. Larry Newman says the severity and frequency of headaches can increase during warm, humid months.
"We're getting lots of storms, so the heat, the humidity and then the rain that follows it are triggers of headaches," Dr. Newman said.
For everyone, but especially those who suffer from chronic headaches or migraines, a recent survey by the National Headache Foundation found 75% of those questioned reported being unable to participate in outdoor activities due to headaches caused by changes in altitude, weather or wind - in addition to stormy weather.
"Some of the summertime triggers can include things such as bright flickering sunlight, odors and perfumes from sunscreen, dietary triggers," said Suzanne Simmons, National Headache Foundation.
Including nitrates found in some barbecue favorites, tannins found in alcoholic beverages and caffeine - if you overdo all those icy drinks. Also, dehydration can really deliver a knock-out punch.
"If you're suffering from dehydration, it's important to make sure that you drink plenty of fluids. Sports drinks are rich in minerals and vitamins and those can help to re-hydrate you," Simmons said.
Dr. Newman says individuals can decrease the frequency and severity of attacks.
"Try wearing a hat, they can wear an odorless sunscreen, they can limit the amount of alcohol they use. They can limit the amount of foods they know will trigger their headaches," Dr. Newman said.
Whitney knows humidity bothers her and always wears sunglasses to cut the glare. By making adjustments, she can still enjoy some sunshine.
"It's all about trial and error," Whitney said.
Since it gets darker later in the summer, people tend to get off their meal and sleep schedules, which can also trigger headaches - so it is important to stay on track.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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