We all suffer from headaches from time to time, but what does a dehydration headache feel like? Is it different from the headaches we feel from other causes? In this guide, we will discuss the importance of hydration, what it may feel like if we become dehydrated, treatments for dehydration headaches and prevention techniques. The more equipped we are in understanding the signs and symptoms of dehydration headaches, the more effectively, and quickly we can cure them. Because let’s face it, we would much rather avoid any aches or pains if we could!
Why Hydration is Important
Maintaining our body's hydration is essential for our overall health and well-being. Water supports our bodily functions, such as nutrient absorption, temperature control and skin health. It also plays a huge part in our cognitive performance and mood regulation. As well as all these vital components breaking down if we don’t consume enough liquids, we also start to feel physically unwell in the form of dehydration headaches.
How Does Dehydration Cause Headaches
One of the first things we feel when we lack fluid is dehydration headache symptoms. This is because the body becomes unbalanced, which leads to multiple changes that trigger pain. Dehydration causes a reduction in blood volume, which in turn reduces the amount of blood flow to the brain, causing discomfort. An imbalance in electrolytes also becomes an issue, as the body requires a sustainable amount to ensure adequate nerve function. Additionally, water helps the body to sweat effectively, and in turn controls body temperature, so if this is lowered in any way, the body can become hot, with increased pressure that can cause a headache.
Dehydration Headache Symptoms
So, now we know the reasonwhy we feel head pain, but what does a dehydration headache feel like?Well, this can differ for each individual, and some symptoms may overlap with other headaches, however, it will often display the following characteristics:
Throbbing pain
You may feel a throb or pulsing pain on the front, back or side of the head.
Continual discomfort
Dehydration headaches often create a dull, persistent ache that lingers without treatment.
Gets worse with movement
Many dehydration headache sufferers claim that their pain gets more severe when moving, such as walking around, bending down or moving your head from side to side.
Additional signs
With dehydration, headaches unfortunately aren’t the only symptom you will suffer with. Many individuals will become dizzy or lightheaded, nauseous, become sensitive to light, suffer from dryness in the mouth, throat or skin, and take fewer trips to the bathroom.
Now you can recognise the symptoms of a dehydration headache, let us briefly explain the signs of opposing headaches, to help you tell the difference:
Sinus headaches
Often caused by allergies, sinus headache sufferers are likely to experience facial pain and pressure in the cheekbones and nose, as well as the forehead.
Tension headaches
Tension headaches arise due to several factors, including stress, bad posture or muscle strain. An individual will feel pain or a tightening in their neck as well as the initial headache.
Migraines
Migraines are often passed down genetically, but can also be caused by hormonal changes or stress. The sufferer will usually feel nauseous and be sensitive to light, sounds or smells.
How to Treat a Dehydration Headache
The most important question here is how do you get rid of a dehydration headache? Luckily, there are many things you can do to relieve the above symptoms:
Drink water
Perhaps the most obvious, but definitely the most important thing you can do is to drink plenty of water.
Increase your electrolyte intake
Beverages such as coconut water and fruit juice, or foods like bananas and sunflower seeds will support you to become rehydrated faster and therefore cure your headache.
However, to ensure your body has everything it needs to rehydrate quickly, electrolyte supplements can be a great solution. Sodii electrolytes are available in convenient hydration powder sachets, making them perfect for quick and easy rehydration wherever you are.
Consider oral rehydration solutions
Choose either store-bought or home remedies to restore your electrolyte balance. A great solution we use is to mix 16 ounces of water with 3 teaspoons of sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Rest
Take it easy for a while and reduce your movements, you’ll definitely feel better for it!
How to Prevent a Dehydration Headache
Now, we’ve discussed how to get rid of a dehydration headache, but wouldn’t it be great if we didn’t have dehydration headache symptoms in the first place? Here are some top tips to avoid becoming dehydrated:
Drink regularly
You are already slightly dehydrated when you become thirsty, so don’t wait until then to take a drink. Carry a reusable water bottle around with you, and even set a timer on your phone to remind you to drink at regular intervals.
Check your urine
A great indicator of your body’s fluid levels is your urine, in addition to the frequency of your bathroom trips. Monitor this throughout the day and drink more water when required.
Monitor your caffeine and alcohol intake
These drinks increase your fluid loss and therefore make your body dehydrated.
Adjust to your environment
Think about what you are doing and the environment that you are in. Are you partaking in a sweaty workout? Or perhaps it’s a particularly hot day? Compensate for any water loss by drinking before, during and after your activity or situation.
Your Hydration is Your Responsibility
So, what does a dehydration headache feel like? Less than ideal. Of course, situations may arise where you are less able to control your water intake, but on the whole, it’s probably a better idea to take our advice on board to prevent you from becoming dehydrated, and in turn, feeling those dehydration headache symptoms. If you do get caught out, there are thankfully several effective methods to treat a dehydration headache swiftly.
