Taking a glass of wine or any alcohol-containing drink has been a social norm for a centuries-old culture. But did you know that many people believe that drinking wine can actually help in curing headaches? But does it really?
The belief that alcohol, particularly wine, serves as a remedy for headaches or migraine attacks is quite prevalent. Yet, this belief does not hold up to a scientific reality. Let’s take a closer look at some of the myths associated with wine’s effects on headaches and the science behind it.
Myth: Wine is a cure for headaches
A commonly held belief is that alcohol, particularly red wine, can help in reducing the pain and frequency of headaches. While many people find this to be true from their own personal experience, experts suggest the opposite.
According to Tara Mardarovich, a registered nurse and a national spokesperson for the National Headache Foundation (NHF), alcohol consumption is a known migraine trigger and can make an existing headache worse. In fact, Mardarovich states, “Drinking alcohol may dilate blood vessels and increase the amount of calcium in the blood, thereby promoting headaches.”
Additionally, there are several studies that have shown alcohol consumption can trigger migraines in up to a staggering 75% of chronic sufferers.
Fact: Wine may relieve stress, but it won’t cure headaches
The broadcast of alcohol’s beneficial properties is not entirely false. There have been studies proving that a moderate, responsible dose of alcohol can indeed induce relaxation and improve an individual’s mood.
A glass of wine at dinner can be part of a healthy lifestyle and can be an effective way to relax after a stressful day. But it should not be confused as a remedy for headaches or a cure for migraines.
Stress can be a migraine trigger, so some people may find that drinking wine in moderation can help alleviate the negative effects of tension headaches and migraines. However, this does not mean that the alcohol itself will help relieve the pain directly.
Fact: Identify and avoid triggers for a more effective remedy
The first step is to identify the triggers, and it starts with keeping a headache diary. For up to a month, patients should record all the activities, stress, food intake and sleep patterns leading up to a headache. A headache diary can help patients and doctors identify the underlying triggers for a headache.
Once a patient is aware of that his or her headache triggers, the next step is to learn how to avoid them. This may take some time and patience because it involves making lifestyle changes. These may include avoiding alcohol, smoking, getting enough sleep, staying away from caffeine, and maintaining a stress-reducing exercise routine.
For patients who note that a glass of wine helps reduce stress and anxiety, knowing their triggers may be a better way to avoid headaches.
In conclusion
There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that wine is a cure for headaches. In fact, there are several studies showing that alcohol consumption is a known trigger of migraines for some people.
A glass of wine every now and then may actually be good for relaxation and stress relief. But it should not be confused as a remedy for a headache or migraine. If someone is experiencing frequent headaches or migraines, it is a good idea to keep a journal of triggers and make lifestyle changes.
Enjoying a tasty glass of wine should be done in good health, but not for health. It is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional for any questions or concerns about a headache and overall health.