A heat headache is a dull, throbbing pain that may worsen with high temperatures, often described as a headache from heat. Millions of Americans suffer from headache disorders like migraines and cluster headaches. According to the National Headache Foundation, more than 37 million Americans suffer from migraines, and heat can make symptoms worse.
Some people report that headaches become more frequent or severe during hot weather, which leads many people to ask: Can heat give you a headache? This may be more likely when dehydration and prolonged sun exposure are involved. If you experience a heat headache, dehydration may be one contributing factor, which may help explain why heat triggers headaches for some individuals.
Dehydration may contribute to headaches for some individuals. Researchers believe this may relate to changes in fluid balance, blood volume, and electrolyte levels that can influence how the body and brain function.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Causes of Heat Headaches and Heat Exhaustion Headaches
A heat headache can be caused by a variety of factors or present itself as a side effect of a more serious heat-related illness. In some cases, heat headaches may be related to dehydration. When dehydration occurs, it can affect the muscles and central nervous system.
Here are some of the other contributing factors that lead to heat headaches:
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Dehydration
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Bright lights, including the sun’s glare
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Dramatic changes in barometric pressure
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Excessive heat
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Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke
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High humidity or a high heat index
As temperatures increase, your body needs more fluids to function properly because, when your body sweats in an attempt to cool down, you lose vital electrolytes, like sodium, and water. If you don’t drink enough hydrating fluids during high temperatures, you can develop dehydration. Dehydration can trigger headaches or even migraines.
One study examined the impacts of heat on cognitive function in soldiers operating in desert areas. The study found that when it came to attention, motor function, and memory, intense heat and humidity resulted in poor performance compared to normal weather conditions.
Excessive exposure to high levels of heat and humidity can also lead to heat-related illness, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Heat headaches are one of the main symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. The conditions can occur simultaneously or you may get a headache before developing other heat-illness symptoms.
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats and struggles to regulate its temperature, often during prolonged exposure to high temperatures or physical activity in the heat. Heatstroke is a medical emergency in which the body’s core temperature rises above 104°F (40°C) and the body can no longer regulate heat effectively.
Older adults and young children are more likely to suffer from dehydration. Young children are still developing and may not be able to cool down as easily as adults. Older adults may also have health conditions or take medications that increase dehydration risk. Plus, as we get older, our bodies lose water more quickly, and it’s harder to address dehydration.
Symptoms of Heat Headache
Heat headaches cause more symptoms than just throbbing head pain. In some cases, heat headaches may be related to dehydration, the condition can affect your muscles and central nervous system.
Here are some of the main symptoms of heat headaches:
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Throbbing or pounding head pain
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Muscle cramps
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Heat cramps
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Dizziness and feeling faint
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Nausea
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Extreme thirst
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Low blood pressure
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Fatigue and lethargy
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Light sensitivity
If you experience the symptoms of a heat headache, the main course of action is to remedy dehydration. While drinking water or sports drinks can help with hydration, oral rehydration solutions are formulated to support fluid and electrolyte replacement and may be helpful during mild dehydration.
Avoid Heat Headaches
Drink DripDrop before heading out into hot temperatures and keep drinking it throughout the day to ward off dehydration.
If you suffer from heat headaches or are at higher risk for heat exhaustion, try to limit strenuous physical activity on hot days and during heat waves. If your job requires you to work outdoors regardless of the weather, try wearing a hat, sunglasses, and loose-fitting clothing to help your body stay cool.
Wear sunscreen to prevent sunburn, as sunburn may also increase the risk of heat headaches. Whenever possible, take breaks in the shade or a cool environment like an office break room with air conditioning.
If you already have a heat headache, some people find that rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers may help as part of learning how to get rid of a heat headache. Placing ice packs on your head or neck may help cool the body. You can also pack a cooling towel in your work bag that you can use to stay cool when the temperatures skyrocket.
When To Seek Medical Attention
Know when to get help. If your heat headache is accompanied by a body temperature higher than 104°F (40°C), seek medical attention immediately, as you may be suffering from heatstroke. Visit a medical professional if your heat headache is accompanied by vomiting, confusion, or slurred speech. These are indicators of a more serious problem.
If you suffer from chronic headache pain, visit a doctor who can help you identify headache and migraine triggers. They may ask you to keep a headache diary to figure out what’s causing your headache. A doctor can also give you tips to manage pain caused by higher temperatures.
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Drinking an oral rehydration solution like DripDrop may help support hydration for mild dehydration and is often included in conversations about how to get rid of headache from heat.
FAQs About Heat Headaches
How to reduce headache due to heat?
To help reduce headache due to heat, move to a cooler area, rest, and sip fluids regularly. Wearing light clothing and taking breaks from sun exposure may also help.
Can heat give you a headache?
Heat can trigger headaches in some people, especially during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Factors like dehydration, humidity, and physical exertion may increase the risk.
How to get rid of a heat headache?
To get rid of a heat headache, cooling the body, hydrating, and resting in a shaded or air-conditioned space may help. Some people also find relief using cold packs on the neck or head.
Can the heat give you a headache even if you drink water?
Yes, the heat can give you a headache even if you are drinking water, particularly during intense heat or activity. Electrolyte loss, humidity, and individual sensitivity may still play a role.
What is a heat exhaustion headache?
A heat exhaustion headache is a headache that may occur alongside fatigue, dizziness, or heavy sweating in hot conditions. It can be an early sign of heat-related illness and should not be ignored.
