Is Migraine Hereditary?

The exact cause of migraine remains a complex puzzle. However, genetics plays a significant role in determining who is at risk. For instance, one type of migraine (familial hemiplegic migraine) is named for its hereditary links.

Our neurologists at Advanced Medical Care in Queens and Brooklyn, New York, have extensive experience in migraine care and headache management. Our goal is to identify issues that trigger these debilitating headaches and formulate a treatment strategy that limits their impact on your life.   

Here’s our insight into the science behind migraine and how family history may influence its occurrence.

The genetic link to migraine

Studies have shown that migraine headaches tend to run in families, hinting at a strong hereditary component.

If one or both of your parents experience migraine pain, your likelihood of developing them increases significantly. Researchers estimate that 50-70% of people with migraine have a family history of the condition.

The genetic basis of migraine involves multiple genes, many of which are still being studied. We believe these genes influence the brain’s sensitivity to environmental and internal triggers and how you process pain.

For instance, CACNA1A, ATP1A2, and SCN1A mutations could be associated with rare forms of migraine. One of them is familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM), a subtype that can cause temporary paralysis on one side of the body.

However, for the more common types of migraine, such as migraine without aura, the inheritance pattern is less straightforward. In this case, the cause is likely a combination of genetic and environmental influences rather than a single gene being responsible.

So, what’s my risk of developing migraine?

If a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, has migraine, you’re more likely to develop them. Interestingly, the risk appears to be higher for women than men, which could be due to hormonal factors that also influence migraine prevalence.

Although a family history increases your risk, it does not guarantee you will experience migraine. Lifestyle factors, stress levels, and exposure to specific triggers also play a crucial role in whether you develop migraine.

Thus, identifying and avoiding triggers can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine pain, even if you have a genetic predisposition.

Migraine triggers vary significantly from one individual to another, but the most common culprits include:

Hormonal changes

As noted, fluctuations in estrogen levels during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can trigger migraine.

Stress

High levels of stress or sudden relief from anxiety (like after a deadline) are frequent migraine triggers.

Dietary factors

Processed meats, aged cheeses, and some foods containing MSG can provoke migraine in some people.

Sleep patterns

Both too much and too little sleep can increase migraine risk.

Environmental factors

Bright lights, loud noises, strong smells, or weather changes may also trigger headaches.

Managing migraine when you have a family history

If migraine pain runs in your family, you can take steps to minimize its impact on your life:

Keep a migraine diary

Track your symptoms, triggers, and lifestyle habits to identify patterns and avoid potential triggers.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, consistent sleep patterns, and managing stress can help reduce migraine frequency.

Schedule a consult

Our headache specialists at Advanced Medical Care can develop a tailored treatment plan, which may include preventive medications, abortive treatments to stop migraine pain, or lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers.

If your migraine headaches are severe or include unusual symptoms like hemiplegia, you may also benefit from genetic counseling to determine whether specific genetic mutations are contributing.

If you have a family history of migraine, understanding your risk and taking proactive steps to manage triggers can make a significant difference.

Make an appointment with the experts at Advanced Medical Care today for advanced migraine care tailored to your needs. Call the office closest to you, or request your appointment online.