In fact, around 30 percent of people who experience recurrent migraines report alcohol as a trigger. Another thing that remains unclear is whether the type of alcohol you drink determines whether or not you will get a migraine headache. Some studies found that red wine is a main trigger in migraine with aura and cluster type migraine, but they also note that all alcohol could have the same effect.
Migraine without aura
- For instance, a negative mood after drinking alcohol can contribute to some people having migraine headaches regardless of what they have drunk.
- Conversely, there are many medications that interfere with the breakdown of alcohol and acetaldehyde, worsening the consequences of drinking.
- Studies show that many people with migraine choose not to drink alcohol for fear that it may trigger a migraine attack.
- This chemical is a vasodilator, which increases the size of blood vessels in the body.
- You can consider going for foods such as bread that will help raise the blood sugar.
While anyone can experience DAIH, people with migraine are more susceptible. Even a modest amount of alcohol can cause people with migraine to develop a delayed headache or trigger an attack. The short answer is that while it’s possible for alcohol to cause a migraine attack, it’s often a bit more complicated. In some studies, about one-third of people living with migraine reported alcohol as a migraine trigger (at least occasionally). In these retrospective studies, only 10% reported a frequent link. People who experience a headache after drinking should not assume that it is a migraine, especially if they have symptoms consistent with other types of headaches.
Does Type of Alcohol Matter? Which Alcohol Is Best for Headaches?
Since every person is different, it helps to hear what tactics (not necessarily evidence-based) help others. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Alcohol: A Trigger for Headaches and Migraines
A «drink» in this case is considered a 5-ounce glass of wine or 12 ounces of bee (5% alcohol, less for stronger beers, so be sure to read the label). The only guaranteed way to prevent a hangover headache is to avoid alcohol, or at least drink in moderation. The most important thing to consume while you are recovering from a hangover is liquid, in order to avoid further dehydration. Any liquid (except alcohol!) that you find palatable is acceptable, such as boullion, chicken soup, sports drinks, or water. A hangover headache—also called a delayed alcohol-induced headache—usually comes on the morning after drinking the night before, once the alcohol is out of your system.
Other remedies for avoiding migraine
It’s important to work with your obstetrician and your headache doctor when you have migraine to establish a safe treatment plan. If you’re not already working with a headache doctor, use our Find a Doctor tool to find someone in your area. Plan to discuss the FDA’s safety guide for medication use during pregnancy. Did you know that 20% of women say they avoid pregnancy because of migraine? While migraine thankfully does not affect fertility, it can complicate conversations about family planning and infertility treatments. Learn more about the relationship between migraine and family planning.
If you choose to drink alcohol, doing so responsibly can help you stay away from hangovers. A hangover is a group of unpleasant symptoms that can happen after drinking too much alcohol. As if feeling awful weren’t bad enough, frequent hangovers also alcohol causes migraines are linked with poor performance and conflict at home, school and work. Keep in mind that it is important to minimize the use of Tylenol (acetaminophen) when drinking alcohol (or recovering from a hangover), as the combination can harm the liver.
- As a result, a female’s blood alcohol concentration tends to be higher, making it more likely for females to experience headaches and hangovers.
- There’s no “safe” alcoholic drink, and you don’t have to have a primary headache disorder to be affected.
- Drinking slowly and limiting how much you drink may help fend off a headache, too.
- Alcohol can dilate blood vessels in your brain, which can cause a headache.
- Drinking any type of alcohol in excess, including beer, wine, or liquor, can cause headaches.
- If they find this too challenging, they may have alcohol use disorder, which warrants treatment.
Does wine trigger a headache more often than other types of alcohol?
