August is the month many people take time off from work for a summer break, but many of the things that make summer so much fun for most of us can make it miserable for others. For them, summer can be a real headache. Migraines are more than just occasional, minor headaches. Not only do they produce significant pain and suffering in susceptible individuals, they're also linked to a higher risk of stroke. Migraine headache  can affect anyone, but they're roughly three times more common in women than in men. More than two-thirds of cases occur in women between the ages of 15 and 55.

In most cases, the onset of symptoms is associated with specific substances or situations called triggers. Common triggers for headaches and migraines include stress, fatigue and hunger. For everyone, but especially those who suffer from chronic headaches or migraines, a recent survey by the National Headache Foundation found 75% of those questioned reported being unable to participate in outdoor activities due to headaches caused by changes in altitude, weather or wind - in addition to stormy weather. Danish researchers report that a third of a teaspoon of fresh or powdered ginger, taken at the first sign of migraine, may reduce symptoms by blocking prostaglandins, chemicals that inflame blood vessels in the brain. Since it gets darker later in the summer, people tend to get off their meal and sleep schedules, which can also trigger headaches - so it is important to stay on track.