Cold weather, along with changes in eating and resting habits, and stress can stimulate nerve cells, leading to increased production of irritants and causing symptoms such as headaches and shoulder pain during winter.
Although the end of the year is filled with numerous festivals and exciting holidays, winter often brings its own set of characteristic ailments. From the flu and respiratory issues to dry skin, winter can be challenging for those prone to these common health problems.
Among these, one of the unwanted issues that continuously affects the health of many during the cold season is headaches. This condition often strikes unexpectedly and can linger for a long time, diminishing the sufferer’s mood.
Headaches are a common occurrence when the weather turns cold. (Photo: Healthfully).
Causes of Winter Headaches
According to Hindustan Times, if you frequently experience headaches during winter, experts suggest that there may be several underlying causes. One of the primary causes of winter headaches is cold-induced headaches. To prevent this type of headache, older adults are often advised to wear hats that cover the head during winter to avoid exposure to cold air.
Additionally, other factors such as dehydration, changes in sleep habits, and dietary adjustments during winter can lead to headaches. The drop in temperature can also exacerbate headaches due to increased atmospheric pressure and reduced sunlight exposure.
Dr. Neetu Ramrakhiani, Head of the Neurology Department at Fortis Escorts Hospital, Jaipur (India), states: “Cold, dry winds, dehydration, changes in sleep patterns, and opting for comforting foods like soups that often contain MSG can sometimes trigger winter headaches.”
Another type of headache known to worsen during winter, occurring at specific times during the season, is referred to as cluster headaches. These typically occur mainly in December and January. Additionally, headaches can easily arise due to poor ventilation, as people tend to close windows and turn on heaters during winter.
Dr. Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine at Global Hospital, Mumbai (India), mentions: “Pollen levels tend to increase during winter, which can lead to allergic rhinitis and headaches. Carbon monoxide poisoning from heaters in closed rooms and sealed windows preventing proper ventilation can also contribute to headaches.”
People sometimes experience headaches due to stress from reduced daylight. According to Dr. Ramrakhiani, shorter daylight hours can lead to feelings of sadness, further exacerbating stress-related headaches.
Spending too much time in a closed room with the heater on during winter can make you more susceptible to headaches due to poor ventilation. (Photo: Allergyasthmanetwork).
How to Alleviate Winter Headaches
According to Healthshots, if you are prone to headaches or migraines during winter, several measures can help minimize risks, including:
Healthy Eating: A balanced diet helps the body cope better with cold-induced headaches. Fruits and vegetables contain detoxifying agents that reduce the risk of migraines. Protein in chicken soup can also help alleviate headaches during winter. Warm soup soothes the sinuses and provides the body with natural antibiotics to protect against infections.
Stay Hydrated: The brain is made up of 75% water, and when dehydration occurs, it starts producing histamines that cause pain and fatigue. As a result, you may experience headaches and low energy. Ensuring adequate hydration daily will prevent the brain from producing histamines and the painful consequences that follow. You should aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water each day.
Manage Stress: Life can be stressful, and how you handle it can greatly impact your health. A balanced life with enough time for work, loved ones, relaxation, and enjoyment will help you cope better with pressures and challenges.
Get Plenty of Rest: When you sleep, your body and mind recharge for the next day. Without sufficient rest, your energy levels will drop, affecting your memory. Therefore, ensure you get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to keep your body in optimal condition to fight off migraine triggers.
Avoid Overusing Medication: According to the International Headache Society, taking pain relief medication more than twice a week increases the risk of developing rebound headaches due to overuse. This can create a vicious cycle where you take more medication to combat pain, leading to more severe and frequent headaches, necessitating even more medication.
Consume Caffeine: If you experience cold-induced headaches, try to consume warming foods and beverages. When suffering from headaches, experts often recommend drinking tea or coffee. This is because caffeine can help reduce stress along with relaxing the brain. Reports in the journal Headache and Pain indicate that caffeine can improve mood, help relax blood vessels, increase alertness, and enhance mood, thereby reducing headaches.
