Red wine is classified as a dominant trigger of cluster headaches and migraine attacks, while champagne, white wine, and other sparkling wines are also linked to migraine headaches. Vasodilation may trigger migraine attacks in certain individuals. This is especially true for people prone to headaches or migraine without alcohol. Hangovers are very common in people who consume too much alcohol. In one study, researchers found that about 75% of people who drank excessively the night before reported hangover symptoms. The researchers concluded that 25% to 30% of people who drink may be resistant to hangovers.
How Much Alcohol Can Cause a Headache?
- This can differ for each person and whilst one may find that spirits cause a headache, another may find that lager doesn’t agree with them.
- In a 2018 study involving 2,197 people with migraine, 25% of the participants who stopped or always avoided drinking did so because alcohol triggered migraine attacks.
- Congeners tend to aggravate brain tissue and blood vessels, which contributes to headaches.
- Vasodilation may trigger migraine attacks in certain individuals.
- Always check ingredient labels if you’re prone to headaches.
The organization says the only way to cure a hangover is to wait until the toxic byproducts have cleared from the body. Tannin, a component in red wine, has been long considered the culprit. Taking preventative measures is the best way to stop a hangover headache before it ever starts. Ethanol’s diuretic effects can also quickly dehydrate you, and a headache is just one of many symptoms of what is alcoholism dehydration.
General Health
- Research suggests that experiencing an unpleasant effect from drinking alcohol may alter alcohol consumption.
- People who are allergic to these compounds can experience physical symptoms, such as hives and chest tightness, when they consume these drinks.
- The review also suggests that having migraine leads people to avoid alcohol, rather than alcohol having any protective role against migraine.
While some people try to prevent headaches by taking over-the-counter pain medications before drinking, this can be dangerous. When you take a drug such as Tylenol while drinking, there is a potential for severe side effects, including liver damage. Individuals who are already prone to have migraine headaches should be especially aware of alcohol-induced migraines. Roughly 3 in 10 migraine sufferers report that alcohol is a trigger at least some of the time.
- After a night on the town, it’s easy to blame a headache on too much alcohol.
- The specific effects may vary on the personal capacity of the person.
- Alcohol’s exact role in triggering a migraine isn’t fully known.
- Drinking beer can lead to dehydration, contributing to headaches.
When should I see a healthcare provider?
That may explain the dizziness and shaking some people get with a hangover. Have a couple of slices of wheat toast or a few whole-grain crackers to bring those blood sugar levels back up to normal. Check with your doctor before using it if you have diabetes or high blood pressure. Some evidence suggests it might affect blood sugar and blood pressure levels. Researchers say Korean pears might work with your body’s chemistry to break down alcohol faster.
Types of Alcohol-Related Headaches
The short-term effects of alcohol usually manifest in the form of a hangover. Alcohol stimulates the pancreas to produce toxins that can cause pancreatitis. This condition causes blood vessels in the pancreas to swell and become inflamed. While avoiding the blame game and remembering we’re all human, we know there are some things we can headache after drinking beer do to set our brains up for success while enjoying a beer or drink with friends. “It’s certainly reasonable to take control as much as you can.
What are congeners and how do they affect headaches?
Sign up for free and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips, current health topics, and expertise on managing health. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test is used by medical professionals to diagnose signs of AUD. You’ll need to visit your doctor or trained medical professional to get an official diagnosis. Remember, part of the reason why alcohol gives me (and you) a headache is that it dehydrates you. According to the National Headache Foundation, a person can also consume oral rehydration solutions to help manage dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions contain the correct amounts of glucose and electrolytes to help a person rehydrate more quickly.
