What does "sun headache" mean? How does the sun cause a headache? Do you need to worry? Important information awaits you in the following article:
How does sunshine cause headaches? Let's learn about solar headaches in the following:
Solar headache: what is its truth?
First of all, we have to point out that there is no such thing as a medical sun headache, but this does not mean that sunlight is not one of the causes of headaches. The term "solar headache" refers to a variety of headaches that can result from exposure to sunlight.
For instance, while sunlight can sometimes cause migraine attacks in persons who already have them, it can also cause headaches in people who have a condition called photophobia.
Causes of a sun headache
As previously indicated, prolonged or direct sunlight exposure can cause headaches, particularly in the following circumstances:
1. Migraine sufferers who go outside in the sun
In general, sunlight is a frequent migraine trigger. When exposed to sunlight, light-sensitive cells in the eyes may communicate directly with areas in the brain responsible for stimulating migraine headaches, which leads to a migraine attack .
2. People with photophobia exposed to sunlight
Some individuals may develop photophobia as a result of exposure to light sources. Contrary to what its name might imply, it is not a condition of genuine terror. In fact, it is an increased sensitivity to light that makes exposure to bright light or sunlight a catalyst for pain and headaches.
This condition can cause a variety of headache kinds and is frequently a sign of a health issue, such as:
- sister.
- meningitis _
- dry eyes
- anxiety or depression;
It is important to note that 90% of migraine sufferers have this condition, and even photophobia is sometimes used to confirm a migraine diagnosis.
3. Dehydration brought on by being outside in the heat
When exposed to hot weather and direct sunlight; As in the hot summer months, a person can become dehydrated. When engaging in a variety of physical activities in hot weather, there is a higher risk of dehydration.
When dehydrated, decreased electrolyte and fluid levels in the body can trigger narrowing of the blood vessels, which in turn can trigger headaches. It is important to note that headaches frequently result from dehydration, and that headaches frequently accompany dehydration.
4. Having heat-related health problems
An disease or heat-related health issue during the summer can occasionally cause a solar headache, including:
- sunstroke
This condition may arise from excessive body temperature as a result of prolonged stay in an area exposed to direct sunlight, or as a result of physical activities in hot weather. Having this condition is urgent medical care.
- heat exhaustion
Similar to a sunstroke, this disease can develop from prolonged exposure to hot conditions. This condition is less dangerous than heatstroke, but if the patient does not get the necessary medical attention, his condition may develop into heatstroke.
5. Being in an area with sun-reflective surfaces
Being in some locations with surfaces that may severely reflect the sun's rays might cause a solar headache, such as:
- the beach, where sunlight is reflected off the sand and the water's surface.
- Colder climates; Areas where snow accumulates, creating sparkling surfaces that reflect sunlight.
The patient may note that his head pain began in his eyes if this is the underlying cause of a solar headache.
6. Other cases
Solar headaches may also develop as a result of:
- exposure to sunlight while suffering from a headache of any kind, such as a tension headache, as sunshine can exacerbate headaches.
- Leave a dimly lit room and enter a space that is open to a sudden burst of sunlight.
Symptoms of a solar headache
Depending on the initial source of this type of headache, the nature of a sun headache and its accompanying symptoms may differ, however the following symptoms may occasionally arise in addition to the headache:
- Symptoms of a migraine include blurred vision, chilly feelings, perspiration, and dizziness.
- Heatstroke symptoms include skin that is red, generalised disorientation, clammy or hot, dry skin, nausea, and vomiting.
- Heat exhaustion symptoms include dehydration, lightheadedness, fainting, muscle cramps, a rapid heartbeat, and nausea.
Diagnosing a solar headache
Examining the patient's symptoms and putting him to tests to evaluate his condition and identify its causes, such as the following tests, can help diagnose a solar headache.
- MRI . _
- Some eye exams, such as examining the tear layer of the eye.
- Blood tests, urine tests.
Solar headache treatment
Depending on what caused the solar headache, several therapeutic approaches are performed, for instance:
- If photophobia is what's causing your solar headache, treating the condition can help you get rid of the headache.
- Dehydration may be the root of your solar headache, in which case drinking enough water or electrolyte-rich fluids will help you feel better.
Experts advise avoiding areas with direct sunlight and sitting in the shade or in a dark area for some time if you start to feel a headache coming on.
How can a sun headache be avoided?
The following is advised to lessen your susceptibility to this kind of headache:
- putting on sunglasses before leaving a dark area for a sunny area before heading outside throughout the day.
- When staying in a region that receives direct sunshine, wear a hat and apply sunscreen.
- obtaining the required care for any medical condition that was the root of your solar headaches.
- In warmer temperatures, dress in airy, light-colored apparel.