Call Ahead Care Line:Â (281) 783-8162
Call Ahead Care Line:Â (281) 783-8162
Can dehydration cause headaches to occur? What else might cause them? Here’s what you need to know!
The short answer is that dehydration can ABSOLUTELY cause headaches and even migraines! In fact, should you ever have a random headache come on, there’s a very high probability dehydration is the cause.
It’s reported that a staggering 75% of adults in the United States suffer from dehydration. Further, it’s reported that up to 28% of this statistic is present in older adults. With this in mind, it’s no wonder headaches are such a common occurrence. In a recent article titled, “We’re Not Sick, We’re Thirsty“, GOPure considers this problem even chronic in nature. So what’s the reason dehydration causes headaches, and even migraines? Further, why is this problem in fact “chronic”?
While 60% of the human body contains water, our brains themselves are made of 80% water, and fluid is lost throughout the day during activities like sweating. When a person is dehydrated, the brain and other tissues in the body contract. As your brain contracts and pulls away from the skull, pressure is placed on the nerves in the head causing pain. This is why even moderate dehydration causes discomfort and fatigue.
While statistics have varied on the exact amount of water needed for the average adult, the ballpark seems to be relatively consistent. According to the Mayo Clinic, the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that the average adult male should consume roughly 15.5 cups per day, while the average adult woman should consume 11.5 cups. To put this in perspective, that’s between 6-8 (16oz) water bottles per day.Â
You might be wondering how many cups the average adult consumes on a daily basis…. well, it’s nowhere near the recommended amount. Some studies show the average adult consumes as little as 4 cups of water per day, while others suggest the average is closer to 6-7 cups. Based on this data, we’re significantly dehydrated – meaning, headaches are likely on the rise!
The fact is dehydration is the LEADING cause of headaches! To feel your best, look your best, and to keep headaches at bay, here are some practical tips to stay hydrated.Â
![2022 BPTW logo-horizontal_Web-01-01[91]](https://www.nextlevelurgentcare.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/2022-BPTW-logo-horizontal_Web-01-0191-px1jbkvcnt3xre7ur4vmhlp0evcgahnqmliw8jhauo.png "2022 BPTW logo-horizontal_Web-01-01[91]"){kind=logo}
We improve our services by using Microsoft Clarity to see how users interact with our website. By using our site, you agree that we and Microsoft can collect and use this data.
For fast and easy scheduling, download or open the Next Level mobile app! Click the icon below to get started.Â
