Migraine Causes: Why Are Women More Affected by This Condition? Expert Insights & Remedies

Migraine is a severe form of headache that affects millions of people worldwide. Unlike regular headaches, migraine pain occurs in different parts of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Experts suggest that women are more prone to migraines than men, and the primary reasons for this are linked to daily lifestyle habits and hormonal changes.

In this article, we will explore why women suffer from migraines more frequently, what triggers them, and how to manage migraine pain effectively.

What is Migraine?

Migraine is a neurological disorder that causes intense throbbing or pulsating pain in the head, often affecting one side at a time. The pain can last for hours or even days, making it difficult to carry out daily activities.

According to Dietitian Prerna Chauhan, migraines occur when blood flow in the head increases rapidly, leading to nerve irritation and pain. She further explains that women experience migraines more frequently than men, and there are scientific studies to support this.

Why Do Women Experience More Migraines Than Men?

Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in estrogen levels during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can trigger migraines.
Many women experience menstrual migraines just before or during their periods due to hormonal shifts.

Liver Health Issues

Research suggests that poor liver function is directly linked to increased migraine frequency.
Women are more prone to liver-related issues, which may contribute to more frequent migraine attacks.

Stress & Mental Health

Emotional stress, anxiety, and depression are more common in women and can trigger migraines.
High levels of cortisol (stress hormone) affect brain function, leading to increased headache intensity.

Sensory Sensitivity

Women tend to have a higher sensitivity to bright lights, strong smells, and loud noises, which can act as migraine triggers.

Sleep Disruptions

Lack of proper sleep or irregular sleep patterns can contribute to frequent migraines.
Women juggling work, household responsibilities, and personal commitments often experience sleep deprivation, worsening their condition.

Common Symptoms of Migraine

If you experience any of the following signs, you might be suffering from migraines:

Frequent yawning
Chronic fatigue
Sensitivity to weather changes
Incomplete sleep or insomnia
Feeling nauseous upon waking up
Severe headache triggered by strong perfumes or food smells

How to Reduce Migraine Pain?

Migraine pain can be managed and reduced by making lifestyle changes and following a proper diet. Here are some effective remedies:

Since migraines are linked to liver function, it is important to keep your liver healthy.
Include whole grains like rice, lentils (moong dal), and salads in your diet.
Eat fresh, raw foods like gooseberry (amla), which detoxifies the liver.
Drink wheatgrass juice on an empty stomach for liver cleansing.
Avoid alcohol, junk food, and processed sugars, as they put stress on the liver.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration-induced headaches.
Taking steam inhalation can help relieve sinus pressure, which often worsens migraine pain.
Use a warm compress or heating pad on your head and neck to ease migraine discomfort.
Mix clove powder with salt in a glass of warm milk or water and drink for pain relief.

Migraines are more common in women due to hormonal fluctuations, lifestyle habits, and liver health issues. Understanding the triggers and making simple lifestyle changes can help prevent and reduce migraine pain. By maintaining liver health, staying hydrated, managing stress, and getting proper sleep, women can significantly improve their condition.