Why Some People Get More Migraines During Summers and How to Manage Them

Migraines are much more than just a mere headache. It is a neurological disorder that renders patients incapacitated due to unbearable pain. It is a challenge for many UAE residents to suffer from more frequent and severe migraine headaches during the summer. Even then, people have limited understanding of why migraines occur and possible interventions and treatment at a hospital in Dubai. For such patients, we have compiled viewpoints of three medical experts, i.e., a neurologist, an endocrinologist, and an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor to understand link between summer and frequent migraines. Let us explore it now. 

The Link between Summer and Migraines

A private clinic’s study in Abu Dhabi indicates that more than 20% of UAE sufferers of chronic headaches find their symptoms worsen in the summer. Several seasonal triggers, i.e. heat, thirst, intense sunlight, and changes in air pressure, are connected to this pattern.

Neurologists in Dubai suggest that extended daylight hours and elevated temperatures in the UAE, like other tropical areas, can disrupt hydration and sleep. These factors may act as migraine triggers, leading people to remain indoors with air conditioning, which might worsen sinus dryness and headaches.

Effect of Summer Heat on Your Brain

According to neurologists, heat can expand blood vessels in the brain, causing inflammation and pressure fluctuations that trigger unwarranted headaches. Extra sunshine can also overstimulate the brain, particularly those with light sensitivity. Those who avoid drinking water are more prone to have migraines. An electrolyte imbalance from lost fluids from perspiration without enough replacement can cause headaches and nausea.

Migraines and hormones: Advice from the endocrinologist

Endocrinologists in Dubai opine that changes in routine, nutrition, and stress levels might aggravate hormone abnormalities throughout summer. In women, changes in oestrogen levels mixed with outside factors like heat might cause more severe migraine episodes. Those with thyroid problems, especially hypothyroidism, also get increased headaches in the heat.

According to UAE-based studies, around 30% of migraine sufferers have some hormonal or metabolic imbalance aggravating their disorder. A Dubai endocrinologist’s consultation can rule out the cause of hormonal imbalances, a potential trigger for migraines. 

Sinuses, Allergies, and ENT Triggers:

Summer brings higher cases of headaches seen by ENT in Dubai. The ENT specialists diagnose and differentiate whether the headache is sinus-related or migraine-related. There is a probability that both sinus and migraine can coexist in a patient. However, various other triggers or allergens, like dust, pollen, and dry air from AC units, can aggravate sinus passages and cause facial pressure and unbearable headaches.

On the other hand, typical ENT-related migraines include a clogged nose, face sensitivity, or ear pressure. ENT Dubai can correct the diagnosis and initiate treatment to relieve the patient's symptoms. 

Typical summer migraines in the United Arab Emirates

These are some common factors that increase the frequency of migraines during the summer in the UAE. They are: 

• Extreme heat and humidity

• Dehydration brought on by perspiration loss

• Sun radiation and light sensitivity

• Skipping meals or going on a fast

• Indoor allergies and air conditioning

• Bad sleep from heat or discomfort

• Sudden variations in air pressure or weather

Managing Migraines: Useful Advice from Subject-matter Experts

1. One should remain hydrated. Try to consume 2-3 litres of water daily. If you are perspiring more, add coconut water or electrolytes to stay hydrated. 

2. Don a hat and sunglasses. Bright sunlight outdoors may trigger unbearable headaches. Try using UV-blocking sunglasses and caps.

3. Keep a regular program. Eat well on schedule and, even during vacations or Ramadan, sleep at consistent hours.

4. Maintaining indoor air moisture. If you run air conditioning, consider keeping a bowl of water in the room or running a humidifier to avoid dryness.

5. Cut sugary and caffeine drinks. Although cold caffeinated drinks taste great, they might aggravate dehydration and cause headaches.

6. Track your symptoms to find what triggers your headaches in a migraine diary, and talk to your doctor about it.

7. Summertime brings preventive medicine prescribed by neurologists. ENT specialists could recommend allergy drugs or nasal sprays. An endocrinologist may change hormone treatments as needed.

When should I see a doctor?

Get expert assistance if:

• Your migraine bouts either becoming more frequent or more intense.

• You throw up, have eye problems, or slurred speech.

• Over-the-counter analgesics have little effect.

• You think you have sinus problems or allergies.

Conclusion

Although prevalent, UAE summer migraines are treatable. Proper awareness, water, and professional advice will help you lower the frequency and intensity of attacks. Whether the problem is neurological, hormonal, or ENT-related, staying pain-free depends on knowing how your body responds during hot months.