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Can dehydration cause headaches to occur? What else might cause them? Here’s what you need to know!
The Short Answer - Can Dehydration Cause Headaches?
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.
What do Dehydration Headaches Feel Like?
Pain from a dehydration headache can range from mild to severe. You may feel discomfort all over your head or in a specific area—such as the back, front, or sides. The pain is often described as a dull ache, but it can also present as sharp or even stabbing in some cases.
In addition to the headache itself, dehydration may come with other symptoms, including:
Dry mouth or intense thirst
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fatigue or sluggishness
Dark-colored urine or urinating less than usual
How Much Water Do You REALLY Need?
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!
Tips to Stay Hydrated
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
- Drink water first thing in the morning, even if alongside coffee or tea.
- Listen to your body and stay attuned to early headache signs.
- Make it fun! Set challenges and goals for water consumption, while pacing yourself.
- Purchase a water bottle that helps you track your daily intake.
- Set reminders on your phone, watch or another device reminding you to drink water.
- Don't like the taste? Add a calorie-free or low sugar flavoring!
