Alcohol & Migraines: Can Drinking Cause a Migraine Headache?
Several studies suggest that alcohol, especially red wine, may trigger migraine attacks. The type of alcohol does not seem to affect whether a person gets a headache. While red wine has been described as a dominant trigger of migraines and cluster headaches, white wine, champagne, sparkling wines, and beer have also been linked to headaches. Alcohol may trigger migraine attacks, and it’s very unlikely to ease them. Alcohol-induced migraine is different than a hangover, which is caused by overconsuming alcohol.
How to Get Rid of a Cocktail Headache
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. For some people that also includes alcohol, maybe just certain kinds. National Library of Medicine, one-third of migraine sufferers point to alcohol as a trigger. Storms, excessive heat and changes in barometric pressure are common weather-related migraine triggers that can lead to a migraine attack.
- Your team will be able to alert you of any potential interactions between your migraine medications and alcohol, and they can help ensure you are approaching alcohol consumption safely.
- For this reason, it is important to see a doctor about migraine symptoms or chronic headaches, with or without drinking.
- In other words, the best treatment for a cocktail headache is actually preventing one in the first place.
Attack
Consider these complementary and integrative treatments, and search our Resources Library for more. Whether you have lived with migraine for a few months or a few decades, you know migraine can be a challenging experience. You should continue to seek proper medical attention and access information to help alleviate the burden. Consider joining our Move Against Migraine support group on Facebook so you can connect with others who live with migraine. Start your search with these complementary and integrative therapies. Then, consider exploring more treatment options with our other free resources.
Alcohol-Induced Migraine vs. Delayed Alcohol-Induced Headache
Taking painkillers too often can trigger serious medication-overuse headaches. The risk seems to be highest with aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) and caffeine combinations. Hi, I’m Dr. Amaal Starling, a neurologist at Mayo Clinic specializing in headache disorders. Who gets it, the symptoms, the diagnosis, and most importantly, the treatment. Whether you’re looking for answers for yourself or someone you love, we are here to give you the best information available.
Data sources and search terms
Your trusted professionals are your best resource for getting medical advice when it comes to limiting the negative effects alcohol has on you, your life, and your migraine. It is also important to have open discussions about your alcohol consumption with your health care team. Your team will be able to alert you of any potential interactions between your migraine medications and alcohol, and they can help ensure you are approaching alcohol consumption safely. Be honest with your doctors about your habits and preferences.
Only few studies 46, 48–50, 52 provided the data about the period in which alcohol drinking was considered and measured. Nineteen studies used questionnaire methods to assess drinking 36, 44–59, 61, 62. In two cases, questionnaires were supplemented by medical interviews 53, 61.
By learning how migraine and mental health impact one another and what is smack in the dirt ways to manage both, you can improve your quality of life. Learn more about the relationship between migraine and mental health in this AMF webinar. 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. The difference between these two types of headaches is subtle.