Reasons for headaches after drinking alcohol

Drinking alcohol is linked to migraines and cluster headaches. These symptoms may begin within minutes or hours after ingestion and vary in severity.

Migraines after drinking alcohol are more common, often start gradually, and can get worse if not treated or treated. The sharp pain usually occurs on one side of the head and lasts from a few hours to a few days. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting or sensitivity to light or noise.

Cluster headaches are rare and may be accompanied by symptoms such as nasal congestion and swelling of the face or forehead. These headaches can last from 15 minutes to 3 hours. Lifestyle factors such as drinking alcohol or smoking increase the severity of this type of headache.

Sensitive to ingredients in drinks

Alcoholic drinks like beer contain a chemical called ethanol. This is a vasodilator, increasing the size of blood vessels in the body. Vasodilation can trigger migraines in some people. That’s why many people are susceptible to headaches or migraines after drinking. Other ingredients in alcoholic beverages such as congener and histamine (in red wine) can also cause migraines in some people.

Do gene

Researchers think that certain genes influence the ability to tolerate and process alcohol. Some genes have a higher sensitivity to alcohol, which can lead to headaches even if some people drink only a little alcohol.

Gender, body weight

Women are more likely to experience hangovers, memory problems and headaches from drinking alcohol. Many factors can contribute to this condition, for example, on average women tend to be lighter than men. The speed of processing alcohol intake from alcohol is lower in people who are underweight than people with greater body weight. Women’s blood alcohol concentration tends to be higher after drinking, easily causing headaches and hangovers.

Dehydration

Drinking alcohol causes the kidneys to excrete more fluid, leading to frequent urination and dehydration, easily causing headaches. Drinking plenty of water before, after and while drinking alcohol can reduce this condition.

Limiting alcohol intake or keeping the dosage to a minimum reduces the risk of headaches. Men should aim to drink up to two drinks per day and women one or less. People with severe headaches after being drunk should avoid alcohol completely.

Taking over-the-counter headache relievers after drinking alcohol can increase stress on the liver or irritate the stomach lining. People with persistent or worsening headaches should see a doctor to be examined