Where is dehydration headache

Most people will suffer from a headache at some point in their life but luckily some common types of headaches, such as dehydration headaches, can be treated easily and avoided in the future.

In this article, you will learn the symptoms of a dehydration headache, get tips on headache treatment, find out how long your dehydration headache will last, and learn when to speak to a doctor.

Together with the right balance of electrolytes, water is therefore vital for our bodies to function properly. Daily activities such as sweating and urinating cause the body to lose water. Usually, the amount of fluid lost is easily balanced through drinking or eating foods that contain lots of water. However, sometimes the body loses water faster than it can be replenished. When this happens, the body can become dehydrated. Dehydration headaches occur secondary to or as a complication of dehydration.

Mild to moderate dehydration can cause headaches that can range from being relatively mild to severe headaches such as migraines. Dehydration headaches may be caused by the brain temporarily contracting or shrinking due to the fluid loss. This action of the brain pulling away from the skull can potentially cause the pain of a dehydration headache. The volume of plasma in the blood vessels of the brain may also decrease since plasma has a high water component.

Dehydration headaches are relieved once the body is rehydrated and the brain returns to its normal size and state. Dehydration can happen easily and for simple reasons. If you forget to drink enough water on a hot day, while exercising or during a hike, you could end up dehydrated.

In some places, there may be no access to safe drinking water which can exacerbate the situation. Being sick with a fever can also worsen a situation where you are losing fluids and electrolytes through diarrhea and vomiting.

When this happens, it can lead to discomfort and result in a headache, says Uren. Dehydration headaches can be brought on from mild, moderate, or severe dehydration, but it often depends on the person. You will be at a greater risk for dehydration in cases such as :.

Dehydration headaches will vary in length depending on the individual, but research has found that, depending on how much you drink, the headache can be resolved within 30 minutes to three hours.

Here are four steps to follow in order to treat a dehydration headache:. A study found participants who drank at least mL to mL of water felt relief from their headache within 30 minutes and their headache resolved after one to three hours. Drink electrolytes: Electrolytes are essential minerals such as sodium and potassium that we lose through sweat.

If you are an endurance athlete or someone who works outdoors in the heat, drinking beverages with electrolytes, such as Gatorade or Powerade, may help resolve dehydration symptoms. However, also drink water, which is more important for hydration than electrolytes alone. Take OTC pain relievers: Taking medicine such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol can help with a headache, but Fjeldberg says this will not manage the problem in the long run.

Hydration should be the first course of action. Rest: If you are feeling a dehydration headache on a hot day, Uren suggests finding a shady or cool spot to rest and drink water until you feel able to continue exercising or other activities.

The only way to prevent a dehydration headache is to stay adequately hydrated, which means getting This can include water, but also other beverages, such as fruit juices or tea, and meals. In fact, one fifth of our daily fluid intake is from water-rich foods like celery or yogurt.

Headaches are a common symptom of being dehydrated. Normally, a dehydration headache is a bilateral throbbing sensation and may feel worse during activity or in certain positions. Take these medications as directed with food or water to avoid an upset stomach.

When your head is pounding, ice is your friend. A gel ice pack is generally the most comfortable option. You can usually buy these ice packs with a cover that straps around your forehead.

You can also easily make your own. Many people find that crushed ice cubes make for a homemade ice pack that lies better on their forehead. Put the ice in a plastic bag, place it on your head, and lie down someplace dark and quiet. How to make a cold compress ». If you know that dehydration is a headache trigger for you, try taking some of the following steps to prevent it:. A headache is pain or discomfort that occurs in or around your head, including your scalp, sinuses, or neck.

Nausea is a type of discomfort in your…. Being dehydrated can negatively affect your body and brain. Here are 7 evidence-based health benefits of drinking water. Dehydration takes place when your body loses more fluid than you drink. The most common cause of water loss from the body is excessive sweating. Is there a link between low testosterone levels and headaches in men and women? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect.

Recognizing a Dehydration Headache.