Why Do I Get Headaches, the hangover After Drinking Alcohol?

9 min readDec 10, 2023

As middle-aged men, we’ve all experienced the morning-after headache, the hangover after a night. Why Do You Get a Headache After Drinking Alcohol? Drinking alcohol is often a social activity that many people enjoy. However, for some, it can lead to the unpleasant experience of a headache. This article will explore the reasons why people get headaches after consuming alcohol, the types of alcoholic drinks that are more likely to trigger headaches, and provide tips on how to avoid alcohol-related headaches. We will also discuss the difference between immediate and delayed alcohol-induced headaches and provide insights into the connection between alcohol and migraines. So, grab a drink (non-alcoholic, of course) and let’s dive into the fascinating world of alcohol-related headaches.

Understanding Alcohol-Induced Headaches

The Types of Alcohol-Induced Headaches

There are various types of headaches that can be triggered by alcohol consumption. The three main types are migraines, cluster headaches, and tension headaches. Let’s take a closer look at each of them:

Migraines

Migraines are intense headaches that can be debilitating for those who experience them. For some migraine sufferers, even a small amount of alcohol can trigger an episode. In fact, a study found that about one-third of migraine sufferers listed alcohol as an occasional trigger, while 10% reported it as a frequent trigger. The exact reason why alcohol triggers migraines is not fully understood, but it is believed that chemicals in alcoholic beverages, such as congeners and histamines, may play a role. Congeners are commonly found in drinks like bourbon, whiskey, red wine, and brandy, while histamines are present in alcohol and can also be produced by the body, especially in individuals with Asian flush.

Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches are excruciatingly painful headaches that occur in cycles, followed by headache-free periods. Even a small amount of alcohol can trigger a cluster headache attack for those who are prone to these types of headaches. These headaches typically occur within about two hours of consuming alcohol.

Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache and are often caused by muscle tension and stress. While some studies suggest a link between alcohol consumption and an increase in tension headaches, contradicting research claims that drinking beer could actually reduce pain and improve headache symptoms. More research is needed to fully understand the relationship between alcohol and tension headaches.

Factors Influencing Alcohol-Related Headaches

Several factors can influence the likelihood of experiencing an alcohol-related headache. These factors include the type of alcohol consumed, body weight, gender, and even ethnicity.

Type of Alcohol

The type of alcohol you drink can significantly impact the chances of developing a headache. Some drinks, like red wine, are more likely to trigger headaches due to their higher histamine content and the presence of tannins. On the other hand, clear spirits like vodka, gin, and white rum are generally considered less likely to cause headaches. This is because clear spirits often have fewer additives and chemicals that can trigger headache symptoms.

Body Weight

Body weight plays a role in how much alcohol it takes to trigger a headache. Generally, smaller individuals may be more susceptible to alcohol-related headaches, as they can reach a higher blood-alcohol concentration with less alcohol intake compared to larger individuals. This is particularly relevant for individuals with Asian flush, a condition characterized by difficulty breaking down acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism. Higher acetaldehyde concentrations can lead to increased histamine levels, which may trigger migraines in susceptible individuals.

Gender

Women may be more prone to alcohol-induced headaches compared to men, partly due to physiological differences. Research suggests that women have smaller amounts of the enzyme responsible for breaking down alcohol, making them more susceptible to the effects of alcohol and potential headaches. However, it’s important to note that individual factors such as genetics, body size, and the type of alcohol consumed can also influence the likelihood of headaches. It’s always essential to listen to your body and understand your own tolerance to alcohol.

Ethnicity

Ethnicity can also play a role in alcohol-related headaches. Certain populations, such as Chinese, Korean, and Japanese individuals, have a higher prevalence of alcohol flush reaction, commonly known as Asian flush. This reaction is characterized by facial redness, nausea, headaches, and a rapid heart rate after consuming even small amounts of alcohol. The lack of an enzyme required to break down acetaldehyde, the toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism, leads to increased histamine production, potentially triggering migraines. While not exclusive to Asian individuals, the high proportion of affected individuals in this population has led to the term “Asian flush.”

Immediate vs. Delayed Alcohol-Induced Headaches

Alcohol-induced headaches can be categorized into two types based on when they occur: immediate and delayed.

Immediate Alcohol-Induced Headaches

Immediate alcohol-induced headaches, often referred to as cocktail headaches, occur shortly after consuming alcohol. These headaches are typically pulsating or throbbing in nature and may worsen with further alcohol consumption and intense movement. The exact cause of immediate alcohol-induced headaches is not well understood, but they are less common than delayed alcohol-induced headaches.

Delayed Alcohol-Induced Headaches

Delayed alcohol-induced headaches, commonly known as hangover headaches, typically occur around 5 to 12 hours after drinking alcohol. These headaches are often described as a dull, throbbing sensation and are more commonly experienced by individuals who have consumed larger amounts of alcohol or are more prone to hangovers. Dehydration, changes in blood flow, and the accumulation of alcohol’s metabolic byproducts are believed to contribute to the development of delayed alcohol-induced headaches.

Why Do Some Alcoholic Drinks Trigger Headaches?

Not all alcoholic drinks are created equal when it comes to triggering headaches. Certain factors, such as the presence of histamines, tannins, and other additives, can increase the likelihood of developing a headache after consuming specific types of alcohol.

Wine and Headaches

Wine, especially red wine, is often associated with alcohol-induced headaches. The higher histamine content in wine can cause an allergic-like reaction in the body, leading to headaches. Additionally, the tannins present in red wine can also trigger headaches in some individuals. However, it’s worth noting that white wine, which is produced without grape skins, is naturally lower in histamine and may be a better choice for those prone to headaches. Opting for sulfite-free wines can also help reduce the risk of headaches, as sulfites are known to be associated with headache symptoms.

Clear Spirits and Headaches

In contrast to wine, clear spirits like vodka, gin, and white rum are considered less likely to trigger headaches. These spirits typically have fewer additives and chemicals that can contribute to headache symptoms. When consuming clear spirits, it’s important to choose mixers that are low in sugar to avoid additional triggers.

Beer and Headaches

Beer, particularly darker varieties, can be a headache trigger for some individuals. Darker beers often contain higher levels of congeners, which are byproducts of fermentation that contribute to the taste and color of the beer. These congeners can exacerbate headache symptoms, especially in individuals who are more sensitive to them.

How to Prevent Alcohol-Related Headaches

While it may not be possible to completely eliminate the risk of alcohol-related headaches, there are steps you can take to minimize their occurrence. By adopting some preventive measures, you can potentially enjoy a drink without the fear of a pounding headache the next day.

Moderation is Key

Drinking alcohol in moderation is one of the most effective ways to prevent alcohol-related headaches. Pace yourself and be mindful of your alcohol intake. Avoid excessive drinking, as it increases the likelihood of developing a headache.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is a common trigger for headaches, and alcohol can contribute to fluid loss in the body. To combat this, drink water in between alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated. This can help mitigate the dehydrating effects of alcohol and potentially reduce the risk of developing a headache. Additionally, starting and ending the night with a glass of water can further support hydration.

Choose Your Drinks Wisely

Opting for clear spirits like vodka, gin, and white rum can be a safer choice when it comes to preventing headaches. These drinks generally have fewer additives and chemicals that can trigger headache symptoms. Avoiding drinks with higher histamine content, such as red wine, can also help reduce the risk of developing alcohol-induced headaches.

Eat Before and During Drinking

Consuming a meal before drinking alcohol can help slow down the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream, reducing the risk of immediate alcohol-induced headaches. Additionally, snacking on foods rich in B vitamins, like bananas or broth, during drinking sessions can replenish nutrients that alcohol depletes from the body and potentially mitigate headache symptoms.

Maintain a Headache Diary

Keeping a headache diary can help identify patterns and triggers for alcohol-related headaches. Note down the type and amount of alcohol consumed, as well as any accompanying factors such as food intake, hydration, and sleep patterns. This information can help you make more informed decisions about your alcohol consumption and identify specific triggers that may be contributing to your headaches.

The Connection Between Alcohol and Migraines

Migraines are a neurological condition characterized by severe headaches, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances. Alcohol has long been recognized as a trigger for migraines in many individuals. Research has shown that approximately one-third of migraine sufferers identify alcohol as a trigger for their migraines. The exact mechanisms behind alcohol-induced migraines are not fully understood, but several factors may contribute.

Alcohol and Blood Vessels

Alcohol consumption can cause blood vessels in the brain to widen, leading to increased blood flow and potential migraine onset. This dilation of blood vessels is believed to be one of the triggers for migraines in susceptible individuals. The specific mechanisms by which alcohol affects blood vessels and triggers migraines are still under investigation.

Genetic Factors

There is evidence to suggest that genetics play a role in determining who is more susceptible to migraines after consuming alcohol. Research has identified certain genetic variations that may increase an individual’s likelihood of experiencing migraines triggered by alcohol. However, it’s important to note that genetic factors are just one piece of the puzzle, and other environmental and lifestyle factors can also contribute to alcohol-induced migraines.

When to Seek Help

Experiencing occasional alcohol-related headaches is not uncommon, but if you find that headaches are becoming more frequent or severe, it may be time to seek professional help. Excessive alcohol consumption and recurrent alcohol-related headaches can be signs of an underlying issue with alcohol dependence or addiction.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment

If you’re struggling with alcohol dependency or addiction and experiencing frequent alcohol-related headaches, seeking treatment can help address both the physical and psychological aspects of your condition. Alcohol rehab programs, such as residential treatment or outpatient programs, provide a supportive environment for individuals looking to overcome their addiction issues. These programs often include detoxification, counseling, therapy, and support groups to help individuals achieve and maintain sobriety.

Remember, it’s never too late to seek help and take control of your health and well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, reach out to a healthcare professional or a reputable treatment center for guidance and support.

Conclusion

While alcohol-related headaches can put a damper on a good time, understanding the factors that contribute to these headaches can help you make informed choices and potentially prevent them. Factors such as the type of alcohol consumed, body weight, gender, and ethnicity can all influence the likelihood of developing headaches after drinking alcohol. By moderating your alcohol intake, staying hydrated, choosing your drinks wisely, and maintaining a headache diary, you can take proactive steps to minimize the risk of alcohol-induced headaches. If headaches persist or become more severe, it may be a sign to seek professional help for possible alcohol addiction or dependency. Remember, your health and well-being should always be a top priority.