Strange Causes of Headaches That Have Nothing to Do With Dehydration

25. Excessive or Vigorous Chewing

Constantly chewing gum, gnawing on pen caps, or eating very tough or chewy foods can overwork your jaw muscles and contribute to tension headaches. This repetitive motion puts strain on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding muscles, leading to fatigue and pain that can radiate to your temples and forehead. If you suspect this is a trigger, try limiting gum chewing, opting for softer foods when possible, and consciously relaxing your jaw throughout the day.

26. Travel Troubles (Altitude and Routine Shifts)

Jetting off somewhere new can unfortunately trigger headaches for various reasons. Rapid changes in altitude can affect oxygen levels and pressure within the head. Additionally, travel often involves disrupted sleep schedules, dehydration from flying, unfamiliar foods, and the general stress of being out of your routine—all potential headache culprits. Staying well-hydrated, acclimatizing slowly to altitude changes if possible, sticking to your sleep schedule as much as you can, and packing familiar snacks can help minimize travel-related headaches.