Why does my head hurt when working on hot days?

Jan 22, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, headaches during physical work in hot weather may be caused by excessive fluid loss, heat stress, heatstroke, migraines, hypertension, and other factors. Symptomatic treatments such as general care and medication may be needed. It is recommended that when working in hot weather, proper head protection from the sun should be taken, such as wearing a sun hat or headscarf, to reduce direct exposure to strong sunlight and help alleviate symptoms.

  Under normal circumstances, headaches caused by working in hot weather may be due to excessive fluid loss, heat stress, heatstroke, migraines, heat exhaustion, or other reasons. Symptomatic treatment such as general care or medication may be needed. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

  

  1. Excessive Fluid Loss

  In hot weather, the body sweats heavily to dissipate heat, leading to excessive fluid loss. If fluids are not replenished timely, symptoms such as dry mouth, fatigue, and even headaches may occur, possibly accompanied by weakness and difficulty concentrating. It is recommended to replenish fluids promptly, preferably with warm boiled water.

  2. Heat Stress

  Prolonged work in high-temperature environments can cause heat stress, which leads to impaired body temperature regulation, blood vessel dilation, decreased blood pressure, and reduced cerebral blood supply, thereby causing headaches. Symptoms may include excessive sweating, palpitations, nausea, and others. It is recommended to avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures, take regular breaks, and seek cool places for relief.

  3. Heatstroke

  Prolonged physical labor in high temperatures can easily lead to heatstroke. During heatstroke, the body's temperature regulation becomes impaired, causing internal heat accumulation and neurological dysfunction. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, and excessive sweating, possibly accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and cold, clammy skin. Immediate removal from the hot environment is necessary, and medications such as Huoxiang Zhengqi Water, Suhe Xiang Pills, or Shidi Shui may be taken as directed by a physician to alleviate symptoms.

  4. Migraine

  Working in high temperatures can trigger stress responses in both the body and brain, activating pain transmission pathways in the nervous system and causing migraines. Additionally, high temperatures may cause blood vessel dilation, further exacerbating migraine symptoms. Migraines may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and light sensitivity. It is recommended to take medications such as ibuprofen tablets, indomethacin tablets, or nimodipine tablets under medical guidance.

  5. Heat Exhaustion

  Heat exhaustion is a severe form of heatstroke, caused by excessive heat production combined with insufficient heat dissipation in a high-temperature environment. Due to impaired thermoregulation, excessive internal heat accumulation may lead to neurological damage and organ dysfunction, causing symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms may worsen after physical exertion. It is recommended to immediately move the patient to a cool place to rest and lower body temperature by wiping with cold water. At the same time, call emergency services for medical treatment.

  It is recommended to protect the head from sun exposure when working in hot weather. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat or scarf can reduce direct sun exposure and help alleviate symptoms.