Can migraines be hereditary?

Written by Liu Yan Hao
Neurology
Updated on June 08, 2025
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Migraines are not hereditary and are not considered genetic diseases. The onset of migraines is mainly associated with staying up late, fatigue, and the consumption of certain foods that can trigger migraines, such as foods containing nitrites. This includes pickled vegetables, overnight foods, leftover meals, and leftover vegetables, as these contain nitrites, which can trigger migraine attacks. Other triggers include certain dairy products and red wine. To reduce the frequency of migraine episodes, it is advisable to avoid these foods and not to stay up late. When a migraine attack occurs, temporary relief can be sought through oral painkillers. Regular scheduling and avoiding the aforementioned foods can significantly reduce the number of migraine episodes. Therefore, migraines are not hereditary and do not constitute a genetic disease. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician, and do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Liu Yan Hao
Neurology
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Can I wash my hair if I have a migraine?

Patients with migraines should avoid washing their hair during an attack. Water that is too hot or too cold can stimulate the dilation or spasm of cerebral blood vessels, potentially worsening migraine symptoms. Therefore, it is advised not to wash hair during a migraine attack, though it is fine during remission periods. During a migraine attack, symptomatic oral pain relievers and medications to alleviate vascular spasms can be used for treatment. It is important to prevent migraines by avoiding staying up late and overexertion. Additionally, certain foods known to trigger migraines should be avoided, including foods containing nitrites such as leftovers, pickled vegetables, and other preserved foods which may contain nitrites. Foods like red wine and cheese can also trigger migraines and should be consumed with caution. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What to do about migraines?

Migraine prevalence is relatively high, and for those experiencing migraines, the following treatments are recommended: First, it is essential to maintain a calm emotional state and avoid excessive stress. Secondly, medication can be used for treatment. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used and are effective for many patients. However, if there is no relief after taking these, or if the pain is very severe, medications specifically for treating migraines such as ergot derivatives and triptans may be prescribed. Third, if the migraine is accompanied by nausea and vomiting, antiemetic drugs can be used. Additionally, if the patient with migraine also experiences significant restlessness or anxiety, an appropriate amount of sedative medication can be applied. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What to eat for migraine?

Patients with migraines, when suffering from an attack, need to take some medications for treatment. Commonly used medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers, which are effective for many patients. Additionally, specific anti-migraine drugs, such as ergot preparations, can also be used. Dietary considerations are also important; it is recommended that migraine sufferers eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits to help supplement sufficient folic acid and vitamins, which have a very beneficial impact on blood vessels, because migraines are caused by vascular dysfunction. Furthermore, eating foods rich in B vitamins, such as lean meats, rice, millet, and sorghum is advisable. Migraine patients should avoid eating pickled foods, cheese, or chocolate.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What should I do if I have severe migraines?

Migraine is a very common type of headache with a high incidence rate. Severe migraines can lead to nausea, vomiting, and even an inability to move, significantly impacting the patient's life and work. When migraines are severe, they can be managed by taking oral medications, specifically drugs that target migraines, mainly ergot preparations and triptans. However, these medications should not be used by patients with severe hypertension or by pregnant women. Additionally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also be taken to provide relief. Furthermore, symptomatic treatment should be administered for nausea and vomiting, using antiemetic drugs. If migraines frequently occur and severely affect life, preventive treatments can also be undertaken with oral medications. These mainly include receptor blockers and calcium channel antagonists.

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Written by Liu Yan Hao
Neurology
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Which department should I go to for migraines?

Patients with migraines should visit the neurology department for treatment. Typical migraines often begin with an aura that changes how one sees things before an attack. After the aura appears, symptoms of pain on one side of the head may occur, usually resolving completely within a few hours. These symptoms can recur, and during an attack, symptomatic oral pain relievers can be used for treatment. To prevent migraines, one should avoid staying up late and consuming pickled foods, which contain nitrates that can trigger migraine attacks. Leftovers also contain nitrates and can induce migraines, so it's best to avoid them as well. Additionally, red wine and dairy products can trigger migraines and should be avoided. Overall, since migraines are a neurological disorder, it is advisable to seek treatment in the neurology department.