How does a dehydration headache manifest itself and how much fluid do we need daily to protect ourselves?
Headache is the most common form of pain and one of the leading causes of absenteeism. If not treated properly and in time, it can be severe and make daily activities difficult.
Headaches can vary greatly in frequency and severity from person to person. Some people rarely – once or twice a year or less often. Others suffer very often, perhaps more than 15 days a month. In general, we all present it from time to time.
While some headaches (or headaches) are short-lived others last for weeks. Their intensity varies from mild to debilitating.
Although headaches can have many causes, sometimes they are related to dehydration. Dehydration develops when the fluids our body uses for various functions are not replenished and is thought to contribute to certain headaches, such as tension headaches and migraines.
forms water on it two-thirds of a healthy human body and plays a key role in many functions, including:
- Transport of nutrients and elimination of by-products of metabolism
- Regulation of body temperature
- Lubrication of joints
- Strengthening digestion
- Protection of skin health
Every cell in the body depends on water, so it’s important to get the right amount of fluids every day.
How it manifests
The first signs of dehydration are usually thirst and dry mouth. However, others may occur, such as fatigue, weakness, dry lips, confusion, hallucinations, and a rapid heart rate.
Symptoms caused by dehydration include headache. But when the cause of the pain is really a lack of fluid in the body, will be accompanied by other symptoms such as:
- Dizziness
- Strong thirst
- Dry mouth (dry mouth)
It is necessary to drink plenty of water to ensure good hydration of the body. Instead, limit your consumption of coffee and caffeinated beverages or alcohol, as excessive consumption is associated with dehydration headaches.
But be careful: If you drink coffee or tea frequently during the day and want to reduce it, it is advisable to do it gradually. Abrupt withdrawal of caffeine s can cause headaches!
How much water do we need?
As mentioned above, dehydration headaches can be prevented by drinking enough fluids. But how much water do we need every day? The exact amount depends on the following factors:
- Sex
- Age
- How active are you?
- Living conditions
- Basic health condition
Fluid needs also increases to pregnant and lactating women.
Anything that increases sweating (eg, hot weather, physical activity, high altitude) increases your need for fluids.
However, generally estimated to be in temperate climates the healthy men need up to 3.7 liters of fluid a day, and women up to 2.7 liters. These come not only from the water we drink, but more from our diet (fruits, vegetables, yogurt, drinks, etc.). Those who suffer from diseases should drink as much fluid as their doctor recommends.
What to do
When a headache is caused by dehydration, it usually goes away quickly with increased water consumption. Rest is still necessary, and you may also need an over-the-counter pain reliever.
In general, prevention is better than cure! So make sure you drink plenty of fluids to protect yourself.