How do I know if I have a dehydration headache?

How do I know if I have a dehydration headache?

There are many different types of headaches. Some headaches (like migraines and tension headaches) have no known cause. Healthcare providers call these primary headaches.

Dehydration headaches are secondary headaches because providers know what causes them. You probably have a dehydration headache if:

• Headache pain goes away or gets better with water and rest.
• Pain is only in your head (other types of headaches can cause pain in the neck or shoulders).
• You also have other symptoms of dehydration.

If your headache doesn’t get better after drinking water and resting, see your provider for a checkup. Another condition or illness may be causing your headache. Your provider may order imaging studies (like an MRI or CT scan) to see pictures of your brain and determine what’s causing the pain.