The Link Between Dehydration and Migraines

Most people experience headaches throughout their lives. But they’re infrequent and typically resolve with basic care. For others, headaches and migraines are a constant concern, and learning what might be triggering that pain is critical. Dehydration might be part of the problem.

Learn why you should add proper hydration to your list of migraine prevention methods from the experts at AllCare Chiropractic. 

What are migraines?

Migraines are severe and debilitating headaches with no official cause. They can cause pain on one or both sides of the head, face, or neck and can link with other conditions, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, teeth grinding, and tension headaches. 

Migraines may occur with warning signs, such as auras or vision changes. Some people may experience migraines without warning signs and don’t know one is coming until it’s too late. 

Additional symptoms of migraines include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. 

Numerous factors can trigger migraines, including: 

• Hormone fluctuations
• Weather changes
• Certain foods
• Alcohol
• Insufficient sleep
• Stress
• Caffeine 
• Ear Infections

Dehydration can also cause a migraine.

What does dehydration have to do with headaches?

Your body loses water every day when you sweat and urinate. Consequently, our bodies also require consistent and adequate intake to replenish the lost fluids.

Fluid replenishment is necessary to maintain the function of your body’s tissues and organs, including your veins and brain. Without sufficient hydration, your blood vessels constrict. That can restrict blood flow, increasing your risk for migraines.

How to prevent dehydration

To stay hydrated, you need more than a glass of water once in a while. Increase your fluid intake to roughly 2 liters of water per day, or eight 8-ounce glasses.

While you’re upping your water consumption, you should limit your consumption of alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as they can counteract your hydration efforts. 

For some people, proper hydration relates to other issues and health problems, which means drinking water alone might not be enough.

Treat your migraines and boost your hydration efforts with dietary changes, intravenous hydration therapy, physical therapy, relaxation techniques, exercise, or chiropractic care. 

Check with your doctor, chiropractor, or dietician on creating a plan to balance your fluid intake and electrolytes in a way that works for you and your unique needs. 

If you’re suffering from debilitating migraines, AllCare Chiropractic is here to help. Our team of migraine experts has years of combined experience and can create a customized treatment plan just for you. 

Get started today by giving us a call to schedule your consultation, or book online.