Headache myths: what’s the real deal?

Myth # 1: Women have headaches more often

– Partly true

Most types of headache are equally common in men and women. There’s a noticeable gender difference with migraines, which are indeed more common in women. Statistics show a female-to-male ratio of about 3 to 1.

The reasons for this gender gap have long been the subject of heated debate in headache research. They’re likely diverse. A question currently receiving increased attention from researchers is the role of sex hormones in the onset of migraine attacks. Hormones could have an influence on both the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, potentially contributing to the unequal distribution of the migraine burden between genders. However, the researchers in all these studies emphasize the complexity of the question regarding the role of hormones and point out that there could be many other factors contributing to the unequal distribution.

Therefore, further in-depth research is needed in this field across numerous areas. It can’t solely focus on the hormonal differences between genders. A holistic investigation into the causes must also consider the different everyday lives and lived experience of men and women, as well as their respective societal roles.

Myth # 2: weather triggers headaches

– Unclear and controversial

Blame it on the wind coming down from the mountains – or could it be an approaching storm, a low-pressure system, or humidity? Many sufferers associate their headaches with the weather. But, upon closer examination, you soon realize that despite extensive research in this field, no clear link between weather conditions and the occurrence of headaches has been established so far. In scientific studies, countless records of patients were compared with weather data. However, clear evidence for the “headache-inducing” effect of specific weather conditions has not been found to date. Nevertheless, some sufferers still swear that weather is a major factor in causing their headaches. It remains an open question. "There are people who experience such symptoms in certain weather conditions," confirm some environmental medicine specialists.

The only thing that can be cautiously inferred from the research is that there might be an influence when certain weather features are in the process of changing. For example, some studies have shown a slight increase in headache attacks after or during an acute drop in air pressure. A significant change in humidity might also have an effect. The stronger and faster the change, the more it could affect headaches. Conversely, this implies that stable weather – no matter what kind – probably doesn’t bring on a headache.

Observations suggest that many people’s bodies struggle with weather changes, which might increase their chance of having a headache. However, the authors of such studies emphasize that, based on these observed interactions, it is very difficult to say for sure which mechanisms might be responsible for a connection.

Myth # 3: There's nothing you can do about headaches

– False

Many sufferers feel completely at the mercy of their headaches. They have the sense that the next attack is inevitable – no matter what they do or don’t do – and wait helplessly for the pain to strike. But for the three most common types of headaches – tension-type headache, migraine and medication-overuse headache – certain preventive measures can indeed be effective. Scientific studies clearly show this.

Different factors are responsible for the onset of attacks depending on the type of headache. The prevention measures also differ accordingly. For sufferers, it’s therefore crucial to first get the right diagnosis. Once you understand your headaches and what triggers them, you may achieve lasting improvements by modifying your lifestyle.

Research on the exact causes of tension headaches, migraines, and medication-overuse headaches has been going on for a long time and there is now a solid basis for effective prevention. Strategies like a consistent routine every day, regular meals, healthy eating, hydration, good sleep, exercise, stress reduction and effective can all help. This applies to tension headache, migraine and medication-overuse to varying degrees.

However, understanding your specific headache type is essential for effective prevention. Tools like the quick headache quiz (designed by Professor Hartmut Göbel, Kiel Pain Clinic) can assist with this.

Alongside general causes, personal factors play a role, so understanding your own headache patterns is key. Identifying your personal triggers can help you prevent headaches more effectively. Keeping a headache diary, perhaps using an app, can help show associations between certain activities or behaviors and your headaches. By keeping track of your daily routines and headache attacks over a certain period, you can identify patterns and adjust your behavior accordingly.

But above all else, don’t blame yourself for your headaches. Behavior changes can often lead to noticeable improvements, but it takes attention, mindfulness, and time to understand your headaches fully. With this understanding, you can change your behavior and successfully prevent headaches.

For those severely affected, prevention alone might not be enough. Close medical supervision and additional measures may be required. Remember, never give up on headache prevention, but be patient with yourself if it doesn't work immediately or every time.