Neurologist connects migraines to spicy food, the surprising causes of throbbing headaches

Causes of migraine headaches: Spicy foods, especially those containing capsaicin, the compound that gives chilies their heat, can trigger migraines in some people (Image: Pexels)

If you have ever battled a migraine, you’ll know it’s a lot more than just a headache. It comes with a throbbing pain, nausea, blurred vision, even the faintest light becomes unbearable. Triggers vary from person to person, but could your favourite spicy curry be to blame?

Some experts believe the answer might be yes, especially for those with a sensitive neurological system. Moneycontrol spoke to a neurologist to understand the spicy truth behind migraines.

Migraines are complex neurological conditions, not just intense headaches, says Dr Kunal Bahrani, Clinical Director of Neurology,  Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad. “They involve nerve pathways and brain chemicals, and many things can tip the balance, including food,” he added.

Also read | Cure migraine headaches naturally with these neurosurgeon-approved tips

Spicy foods, especially those containing capsaicin, the compound that gives chilies their heat,  can trigger migraines in some people. “Capsaicin activate pain receptors in the mouth and may irritate blood vessels and nerves in the brain, which can cause problems for those prone to migraines,” explains Dr Bahrani. This irritation will lead to blood vessel dilation, a known migraine trigger.

The body’s reaction to spicy food isn’t all bad; for some, it’s even euphoric. Dr Bahrani informs, “Capsaicin can prompt a flood of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.” But for migraine sufferers, this sudden chemical shift might backfire. “In certain people, what brings pleasure to one might bring pain to another,” he added.

Then there’s the gut. Spicy food is known to cause acid reflux and stomach irritation, both of which can aggravate or even initiate a migraine. Add dehydration to the mix — courtesy of sweating after a spicy meal — and it’s another indirect route to migraine misery.

Not everyone with migraines will react to chillies. In fact, some may enjoy them freely without consequence. “Triggers are highly personal. Keeping a food and symptom diary can help identify patterns,”  says Dr Bahrani. This kind of tracking helps people spot if a spicy dish regularly precedes a migraine, or if something else is to blame.

If you suspect your spicy habits are making things worse, try cutting back. Reduce intake for a couple of weeks and see if your symptoms ease. “Being in tune with your body’s signals is a major part of migraine management,” Dr Bahrani advises.

Also read | Understanding migraine: Different types, complications and symptoms

Listen to your body:

Whether it’s a hot curry or a handful of chilli crisps, spicy foods can either be a delight or a disaster. “While not every sufferer needs to swear off heat, those with a history of migraines should pay attention. Awareness is key,” says Dr Bahrani.

FAQs on the Causes of Migraine Headaches

1. Can spicy foods trigger migraines

Yes, spicy foods, especially those containing capsaicin, can trigger migraines in some individuals due to the activation of pain receptors and irritation of blood vessels and nerves in the brain.

2. How does capsaicin in spicy foods affect migraine sufferers?

Capsaicin can activate pain receptors in the mouth and irritate blood vessels and nerves in the brain, causing blood vessel dilation, which is a known migraine trigger.

3. Why do some people experience migraines after eating spicy foods while others do not?

Triggers for migraines are highly personal. Keeping a food and symptom diary can help identify if spicy foods consistently precede migraines or if other factors are at play.

4. Can acid reflux from spicy foods cause migraines?

Yes, spicy foods can cause acid reflux and stomach irritation, which can aggravate or initiate migraines. Dehydration from sweating after a spicy meal can also contribute indirectly to migraines.

5. What should migraine sufferers do if they suspect spicy foods are a trigger?

If you suspect spicy foods are triggering migraines, try reducing your intake for a couple of weeks to see if symptoms improve. Being attentive to your body's signals is crucial for managing migraines.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.