Dehydration Headaches: What You Need to Know

Did you know that dehydration headaches are a real thing? In fact, they’re one of the most common types of headaches. If you’ve ever experienced one, you know how painful and frustrating it can be. In this article, we’ll discuss what dehydration headaches are, why they happen, and how to treat them. We’ll also cover when to seek urgent care for this type of headache.

What is a Dehydration Headache?

A dehydration headache is a type of headache that is caused by dehydration. When you’re dehydrated, your body doesn’t have enough water to function properly. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches.

Why Do Dehydration Headaches Happen?

There are several reasons why dehydration and headaches can occur. Here are some of the most common causes:

Not drinking enough water
Excessive sweating
Vomiting or diarrhea
Drinking alcohol or caffeine
Running a fever

While symptoms of dehydration headaches vary depending on the person. They may include:

A throbbing or pulsating sensation
Pain that is worse when you move your head
Pressure in your temples or behind your eyes
Dizziness
Nausea
Fatigue

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to drink fluids and seek medical attention.

Underlying Conditions

Dehydration headaches can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you experience frequent dehydration headaches, it’s important to see a doctor and get checked out. Some of the most common underlying conditions include:

Diabetes
Kidney disease
Heart disease
Hepatitis

What causes dehydration headache?

There are many things that can lead to dehydration headaches. Some of the most common causes include not drinking enough water, excessive sweating, vomiting or diarrhea, drinking alcohol or caffeine, and running a fever.

Additionally, some underlying conditions can contribute to the frequency of dehydration headaches.

Dehydration headaches can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you experience frequent dehydration headaches, it’s important to see a doctor and get checked out.

How long does it take for dehydration headache to go away?

The length of time it takes for dehydration headaches to go away varies from person to person. However, most people will start to feel better within 24 hours of drinking fluids and rehydrating.

How do you stop a dehydration headache?

The best way to stop a dehydration headache is to drink fluids and rehydrate. It’s also important to avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration. If your dehydration headache is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or vomiting, it’s important to seek medical attention.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you’re experiencing dehydration headaches, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history. He or she may also order tests to determine the underlying cause of your dehydration headaches.

Treatment for dehydration headaches generally includes drinking fluids and rehydrating. If the dehydration is caused by an underlying condition, treatment for that condition may also be necessary.

Treating severe dehydration

In the most severe cases of dehydration, you can expect to receive treatment in a hospital. This will usually involve an intravenous drip to give you fluids and electrolytes until you’re rehydrated.

Risk Factors for Dehydration Headaches

There are several risk factors for dehydration headaches. Some of the most common include:

Not drinking enough water
Excessive sweating
Vomiting or diarrhea
Drinking alcohol or caffeine
Running a fever

If you experience any of these risk factors, it’s important to take steps to prevent dehydration and the development of dehydration headaches. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, and avoid caffeine and alcohol. If you’re experiencing excessive sweating, make sure to drink fluids regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. And if you’re running a fever, drink plenty of fluids to help bring the fever down.

When to seek Urgent Care?

If you’re experiencing dehydration headaches and any of the following symptoms, it’s important to seek urgent medical care:

Fever
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Nausea
Fatigue

These symptoms can be a sign of an underlying condition that requires treatment.

Visit iCare, Argyle at Wise Health

iCare at Wise Health Emergency Center in Argyle is perfectly equipped to address the symptoms of dehydration headaches. With walk-ins available, low wait times, and accepting most medical insurance providers. Stop by today and get back on your way to feeling better!