Alcohol and Migraine: Relationship, Triggers, Treatment & More

Without a consistent cause-and-effect situation, though, it could be a number of factors — not just alcohol — that are triggering your migraine headache. If you do notice a pattern, especially with particular types of alcohol over others, you may choose to avoid the offending drinks. About two-thirds of people who drink alcohol develop these headaches. People who suffer from migraine are more prone to these reactions — even after drinking less alcohol than people who don’t get migraine headaches. A 2016 review notes that alcohol may trigger a tension headache, especially if a person also has migraine.

More on Migraine & Headaches

“I can usually handle one or two, but that is it,” they wrote. Red wine’s propensity for causing headaches is usually attributed to the sulfates and sulfites it contains. But experts do not link migraine headaches to sulfates and sulfites alone. Other potential contributors in red wines include tannins, flavonoid phenols, histamines, and more. We also examine the types of headache alcohol can trigger and the types of alcohol likely to cause more headaches. Analysis of the 22 included Are Toads Poisonous to Humans Vet-Approved Safety Facts & FAQ studies revealed 5 cohort studies 36, 45, 52, 55, 58, 11 cross-sectional 26, 27, 44, 46–48, 51, 56, 57, 59, 60 and six case-controls 49, 50, 53, 54, 61, 62.

This uncertainty makes it difficult for many people who want to responsibly enjoy alcohol during the holidays or on special occasions to effectively manage their migraine symptoms. The correlation between alcohol and migraines, though, might not be as strong as once reported. A cohort study published in 2022 found that among those with episodic migraines who identified as light drinkers, there was no increased probability of a migraine attack within 24 hours of alcohol consumption. Furthermore, this study found that there was a decreased likelihood of an attack 24 to 48 hours after consumption. 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.

Thirty-five papers were found corresponding to these criteria. Other studies useful for the correlation of the results with the pathogenesis of the primary headaches where also selected. Researchers don’t know exactly what causes alcohol-induced migraine attacks. While in some cases it is likely the presence of alcohol itself, it is also possible that specific components of different alcoholic drinks act as triggers. Much like food triggers for migraine, people may have a higher sensitivity to certain organic components commonly found in alcoholic drinks.

Cluster headaches

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.

Here is the advice of one wine expert

Our Move Against Migraine Facebook group is full of mothers with migraine who can offer encouragement and support throughout your journey. The content on this website is provided for educational purposes only. While it is doctor-verified, it is not intended to serve as medical advice, and users are advised to seek the advice of their doctors before making any decisions based on the information in this article. Once it gets into your system, it is converted into a chemical that triggers migraine. If you have persistent vomiting, lightheadedness, confusion, seizures, trouble breathing, and dulled responses (among other symptoms), seek immediate medical attention — as these may be signs of alcohol poisoning.

Studies show that many people with migraine choose not to drink alcohol for fear that it may trigger a migraine attack. However, researchers aren’t clear on exactly how or why alcohol can impact migraine. There is even some debate about whether alcohol itself or another chemical component in alcoholic drinks acts as the trigger.

We recommend taking a look at our patient guides, which include useful information like how to talk to your doctor about migraine. We recommend exploring complementary treatments such as biofeedback, green light therapy and aerobic exercise. Learn how these common therapies can help you manage migraine. Receiving a formal migraine diagnosis is the first milestone when working with your doctor to identify a personalized and effective treatment plan. Continuing to talk with your doctor throughout the course of your treatment is important for determining the strategies that prove beneficial and those that may not be as effective. If your support system is lacking, consider joining a support group.

PATIENTS

1. However, the research suggests that alcohol may not be the only trigger and may also depend on other factors.
2. 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.
3. Migraine causes a specific type of headache that involves neurological symptoms such as light sensitivity and aura.
4. People with migraine are more likely to have this type of reaction to migraine than those without.

This is caused by inherited (genetic) traits most often found in Asians. Beth Ann Mayer is a New York-based freelance writer and content strategist who specializes in health and parenting writing. Her work has been published in Parents, Shape, and Inside Lacrosse. She is a co-founder of digital content agency Lemonseed Creative and is a graduate of Syracuse University. He also recommends speaking with a doctor before mixing triptans with alcohol or other drugs. Resveratrol is a plant compound that may have some health benefits, like lowering blood pressure, though more research is needed.