Improving headaches with water consumption

A recent randomised controlled trial has investigated the effects of regular water intake in patients with recurrent headaches. 102 individuals consuming less than 2.5 L of water daily, participated in the study. To be eligible for inclusion, participants had to experience at least two episodes of moderately intense headaches or at least five mildly intense episodes per month.

Both groups received instructions on stress reduction and sleep improvement strategies. In addition, the intervention group was instructed to increase their water intake by 1.5 L per day.

After 3 months, the researchers observed a significant difference between the intervention and control groups. Drinking more water resulted in a statistically significant improvement of 4.5 points on Migraine-Specific Quality of Life (MSQOL). In addition, 47% of participants in the water group reported much improvement (6 or higher on a 10-point scale) on perceived intervention effect (versus 25% in the control group). No change was observed in the number of days with a moderate headache.

In light of these findings, the authors felt it reasonable to suggest this non-invasive intervention to individuals experiencing recurrent headaches. 

References:
Mark Spigta, M et al. A randomized trial on the effects of regular water intake in patients with recurrent headaches. Family Practice, published online November 23, 2011