Tips for Avoiding Summer Migraines and Headaches

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Try not to stray too far from your routine...

It's easy to get off schedule in the summer. It gets dark later, things seem a bit lazier. Don't let that lull you into getting off your schedule for meals and sleep. Even on vacation, be careful not to skip meals, and try to resist the temptation to indulge in trigger foods. Try to keep your sleep schedule regular, too. Remember that too much sleep can be a trigger, too, so watch out for sleeping in! See Transformed Migraine Related To Sleep Problems.

Take care of your meds...

Be aware that medications have storage temperature ranges that can easily be exceeded by summer temperatures. Prolonged exposure to higher temperatures can make your meds less effective. When traveling, keep your meds in your carry-on rather than letting it go with the luggage on a plane and in the car with you rather than in the trunk in your luggage. At home, keep your meds in a cool, dark place. Your bathroom is not the best place because of the heat and steam from the shower.

Check your exercise routine...

If you exercise outdoors or don't have air conditioning, you may need to modify your exercise routine for the summer. Summer offers options for exercise that aren't available in the winter. You may be able to swim, walk, hike, or play sports such as tennis or volleyball more in the summer. If you have questions, check with your doctor.For some easy ways to get some exercise, see 10 Ways for Migraineurs to Sneak In Some Exercise.

Plan Ahead...

Plan ahead so stress doesn't bring on tension headaches or exacerbate your Migraine triggers. When cooking, cook big batches and freeze meals. Make lists. Delegate chores to family members. Make travel reservations well in advance. Be sure your car is serviced before traveling. Mark prescription refill times on your calendar so you don't run out of meds. MAPP your Migraines and put your Migraine bag together so your headache and Migraine needs are already put together for easy traveling.See MAPP Your Migraine for more tips.

Don't skimp on time for yourself...

Too often, we're so busy taking care of our families or thinking about our jobs that we put off taking time for ourselves. Please take a few seconds to consider this -- If we're not at our best, how can we give our best? Take time to relax. Look around your home to see how it could be more "headache and Migraine friendly." Do your best to take at least 30 minutes of me time each day to meditate, pray, journal, or just be quiet -- whatever you need. This will help you stay healthier, and staying healthier will help your body resist headache and Migraine triggers.

Wrapping it up...

There's no sure way to avoid every headache or Migraine, but we can take steps to minimize them and their impact. Summer is a time with many opportunities for family and fun, vacations and get-aways. When we take care of ourselves, we can keep more of the fun in summer. Enjoy!