Can a hot compress relieve headaches caused by air conditioning?
Mar 13, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
If a headache is caused by exposure to cold air from an air conditioner, it can usually be relieved with a warm compress. However, if the headache is caused by blood vessel dilation, such as in migraines, a warm compress may not provide relief. If symptoms persist or worsen, prompt medical attention is recommended. When using a warm compress to alleviate headaches, attention should be paid to both the temperature and duration to avoid burns from excessive heat or prolonged application.
If a headache is caused by exposure to cold air from an air conditioner, it can usually be relieved by applying heat. However, if the headache is due to vascular dilation, such as in migraines, heat application may not be effective. If symptoms are severe or unusual, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:
When cold air from an air conditioner directly blows onto the head, causing muscle tension and poor blood circulation in the head, a headache may occur. In such cases, applying heat can help relax nerves, dilate blood vessels, and improve blood circulation, thereby alleviating headaches caused by muscle tension and poor circulation. Heat application methods include using a hot towel or hot water bag on the affected area for 10–15 minutes each time, and this can be repeated multiple times daily.
However, if the headache is caused by vascular dilation, such as migraines, applying heat may worsen the dilation and consequently intensify the headache. Vasodilatory headaches like migraines may worsen after heat application due to further vascular expansion.
When using heat therapy to relieve headaches, attention should be paid to the temperature and duration of application to avoid burns from excessive heat or prolonged use.
