Does Caffeine Help Migraine Headaches?

The American College of Physicians reports that approximately 28 million Americans suffer from migraines. While there is no cure for migraines, their frequency and intensity can be controlled through medication or natural remedies. Caffeine is a naturally occurring substance that may help relieve migraines, but if you are one of the people whose migraines are triggered by caffeine, it can be more harmful than helpful.

What are Migraines?

Migraines are severe, debilitating headaches. They are typically caused by an imbalance in your brain's chemicals, specifically serotonin, which controls pain levels in your nervous system. Migraines can be caused by a wide number of triggers, from hormonal changes to food like chocolate or alcohol. Other common triggers include caffeine, stress, changes in the barometric pressure, and changes in sleeping patterns, among others. A migraine may manifest itself with various symptoms, including severe head pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.

What is Caffeine?

Caffeine is found naturally in plants like coffee and cocoa beans. It is rapidly absorbed by your body after consumption, and passes into your brain. It acts as a stimulant, increasing blood pressure, heart rate, and brain activity. It is also an addicting drug, like heroin or cocaine, though the effects of caffeine are much milder. If you have the habit of drinking caffeine, a sudden drop in your caffeine consumption can cause symptoms of withdrawal, including headaches and nausea.

How Can Caffeine Help Migraines?

Due to caffeine's stimulating effects to your central nervous system, it can be used in the treatment of migraines. According to the Mayo Clinic, caffeine can increase the effectiveness of pain relievers and medication used to treat migraines, though it is still unclear exactly how. A recent study suggests that caffeine may also work to block the receptors of certain brain cells, stopping the spread of the chemical imbalance that could be causing your migraine. However, it is important to note that reactions to caffeine vary from person to person.

Information and Warnings

Even though caffeine may help migraine sufferers, it is important to note that caffeine is still considered a trigger for many people. Caffeine's effectiveness comes when it is administered with other medication during a migraine. It does not prevent migraines, but rather helps relieve them in certain people. If caffeine is something that you have found to help relieve your migraines, it can be found in over-the-counter pain relievers like Excedrin and Midol. However, before starting any new migraine remedies -- including adding caffeine consumption to your normal routine -- make sure to check with your doctor.