Headaches can be debilitating. Knowing what triggers your pain can help you to avoid the discomfort before it happens. Sensitivity to the sun can intensify headaches if you don't plan ahead. Summer months can be particularly difficult with longer daylight hours, more intense sunlight and increased glare. Recognize the symptoms when they occur and seek treatment immediately.
Identification
Intense sunlight can trigger headaches and can cause throbbing pain between the eyes. The Mayo Clinic states that sun glare can produce migraine headaches. Sunlight bouncing off of surfaces including pavement, cars, water and snow can lead to increased light entering the eye. The longer the exposure to the glare, the more you must tighten muscles in your face to block the light triggering the pain.
Types
There are four main types of headaches that can cause excruciating pain to those affected. Tension headaches can be caused by sunlight causing strain on eye muscles leading to muscle constriction. Migraine headaches can be caused by sun sensitivity. Sinus headaches result from trapped air and mucous, and cluster headaches, a rare type of headache, are caused by other factors and usually not worsened by the sun.
Prevention
Staying indoors can prevent headaches caused by the sun. Since the avoidance of the sun is not always possible, particularly in summer months, some simple tips can keep glare to a minimum. Wear a hat or sun visor with polarized sunglasses to keep sun out of your face. Drink plenty of water, at least one 8 oz. glass per hour when in direct sunlight. Try to stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. According to Dr. Irene Belsky in an article in "The Sun Chronicle," an Attleboro, Massachusetts-based newspaper, look for fragrance-free sunscreens and insect repellents to avoid headaches caused by sensitivity to smells.
Considerations
Lack of sunlight may also cause muscle tension and headaches. Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is related to a lack of sunlight generally during the winter months. SAD can cause depression and lethargy. Light therapy is available to treat sufferers of SAD to decrease symptoms. The Cleveland Clinic notes that light therapy does have minor side effects, which may include headaches.
Recommendations
If you know you are prone to sunlight-induced headaches, summer can be particularly difficult. Other factors related to the summer months can intensify headaches. Certain foods associated with summertime activities, such as hot dogs, can lead to headaches. Know which foods affect your symptoms and avoid them, if possible. According to the National Pain Foundation, drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. This is particularly important for children who do not want to stop their activities to drink. Eat salty snacks to help your body retain fluids and keep beverages with you when you are outdoors.
