Relationship between alcohol and primary headaches: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Many individuals experience this unpleasant side effect, and it can put a damper on an otherwise enjoyable evening. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this common phenomenon and shed light on the factors that contribute to those pounding temples. So, grab a glass of water and let’s dive into the science behind alcohol-induced headaches.

What’s the Connection Between Alcohol and Migraines?

Additionally, excessive caffeine intake can lead to vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), followed by vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which can cause intense headache pain. This fluctuation in blood vessel size disrupts normal brain function and triggers pain signals. In the USA, 51% of adults consumed alcohol in the last year; additionally, 11% of those over 50 years old and 6% over 65 age reported the symptoms of alcohol abuse or dependence 21. In Europe, 60% of adults over 60 years of age are current drinkers, and 20% of these had higher levels of consumption than the general population 22. Statistically, males drink more alcohol than women and have more alcohol-related behavioral disorders 23.

What are the Side Effects of A Hangover?

If migraine headaches continue to cause you grief, look beyond home remedies. At the National Headache Institute, we investigate to find the underlying causes of migraine and headaches. We have created customized plans than have helped more than 12,000 people live the pain-free lives they deserve. If both stress and alcohol are migraine triggers for you, combining them won’t do you any favors. In addition to this, people are sometimes more likely to drink more when they are feeling stressed and a little reckless. So it’s best to make alcohol the single, isolated factor and journal what triggers each migraine.

Signs & Symptoms

The same is true if you Alcoholics Anonymous find that some types of alcohol trigger your migraine headaches more than others. Avoiding migraine triggers is one of the only sure-fire ways to avoid migraine symptoms. Avoiding alcohol isn’t the only way to avoid an alcohol-related migraine headache. There are some health benefits to moderate alcohol consumption, but the key is knowing what types of alcohol cause your headaches, in what amounts, and what other factors might be involved.

Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance

Additionally, hunger can cause muscle tension, contributing to tension headaches by increasing stress and strain on the neck and scalp muscles. Tyramine is a naturally occurring compound derived from the amino acid tyrosine. It’s found in various foods, particularly those that are aged, cured, or fermented. Tyramine can influence blood vessel function by causing vasoconstriction and vasodilation, which can potentially trigger headaches and migraines in susceptible individuals. Headaches affect millions of Americans each year, with diet playing a significant yet often overlooked role in their onset and severity. While occasional headaches are a normal part of life, frequent or severe migraines can be debilitating.

Take our Migraine Journey.

When enjoying a night out on the town, there are several triggers you may expose yourself to including bright https://ecosoberhouse.com/ flashing lights, loud music, food and alcohol. More research will help to determine the effects of specific alcohol content on a person’s headaches. However, they usually worsen over time as the neuropathy progresses. Alcoholic neuropathy damages the nerves due to prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption.

This type of headache is known as the ‘cocktail headache’ and comes on shortly after taking an alcoholic drink. This type of headache is less common, but many people may notice the symptoms developing within 3 hours of drinking. However, the headache is known to clear after 72 hours of abstinence. Always drink responsibly—which includes minimizing the chances that alcohol will affect your migraine.

Headaches are one of the most common neurological symptoms related to the sensation of pain 1 and cause a decrease in patients’ quality of life 2. Their global prevalence is estimated at 52% of the population 3. Keep a record of any symptoms that occur after consuming alcohol and discuss them with your doctor. Identifying your specific food and drink triggers is a key part of any migraine prevention and treatment plan. Additionally, people with a history of migraines may experience longer-lasting headaches after drinking alcohol.

• However, researchers aren’t clear on exactly how or why alcohol can impact migraine.
• People who experience a headache after drinking should not assume that it is a migraine attack, especially if they have symptoms consistent with other types of headaches.
• It may be worth considering some treatment options to help you manage your symptoms.
• Three studies were evaluated as moderate risk, with 6 “yes” answers 44, 57, 59.

Understanding Personal Tolerance Levels

One hypothesis is that red wine causes migraine due to high levels of certain compounds called flavonols, particularly quercetin. This compound might inhibit the body’s ability to break down alcohol, leading to the buildup of a substance called acetaldehyde, which could result in headaches. Alcohol is identified as an occasional trigger in about a third of people who experience migraine headaches, but it’s only a consistent trigger in about 10 percent of migraine sufferers. If you develop a cocktail headache, stop drinking alcohol and go someplace where you can rest comfortably.

It’s important to alcohol and headaches stay updated on the latest migraine research and treatment strategies. The American Migraine Foundation Resource Library provides a wealth of articles designed to assist you in understanding your symptoms and treatment options. The American Migraine Foundation is committed to improving the lives of those living with this debilitating disease. To learn more about all of your migraine treatment options, visit the AMF Resource Library. For help finding a healthcare provider, check out our Find a Doctor tool. Migraine is complex, and other neurological conditions may cause migraine-like symptoms.