Migraine in Men on the Rise

Migraine is not just a women’s issue. Learn how often men are affected, the gender-specific differences, and the underlying causes.

Reading time: 9 minutes

Last updated: July 8, 2024

Migraine has traditionally been considered a women’s condition since women are 2–3 times more likely to be affected than men. However, migraine in men is a growing concern. Between 2006 and 2016, the number of men aged 15–19 with migraines increased by 40%, while the rate among men aged 25–29 rose by 70%. Approximately 6% of men in Germany are affected by migraines.

Contributing Factors:
The increase in migraines among men may be linked to rising stress levels, academic or professional pressure, lack of sleep, poor diet, prolonged screen time, and exposure to loud music.

Gender Differences:
While migraines are more common in women, hormonal fluctuations, particularly involving estrogen and progesterone, might explain why women are more affected. These hormones influence the body’s pain and sensory processing. Women experience migraines most frequently between puberty and menopause, and hormonal drops at the start of a menstrual cycle can trigger attacks (menstrual migraines).

Interestingly, studies suggest that men with migraines tend to have higher levels of estrogen and symptoms of androgen (male hormone) deficiency. However, the small sample size of such studies limits firm conclusions. Beyond hormonal factors, other gender-based differences in migraines require further research.

Symptoms: Gender-Specific Differences

The symptoms of migraines in men and women are generally similar:

Intense headaches, often on one side of the face
Sensitivity to light and sound
Increased pain sensitivity
Nausea and vomiting

Differences in Severity:
Studies indicate that women experience longer migraine attacks and higher pain intensity. Women also report more frequent symptoms like visual disturbances (auras), noise sensitivity, and nausea.

Despite these differences, migraines in men can still lead to severe pain and life disruptions. However, men are less likely to participate in clinical studies or report their pain, leading to less data and understanding of male migraines.

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Migraines in Men: Less Researched

Hormonal differences alone do not explain why migraines are more prevalent in women. Men are less likely to seek medical help, participate in clinical trials, or receive prescription treatments. Even when they visit healthcare providers, men are less likely to receive a migraine diagnosis.

Medication Use:
Men often rely on over-the-counter medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, or diclofenac instead of seeking prescription treatments. This contributes to migraines in men being underestimated.

Chronic Risk:
Men with episodic migraines have a 43% higher risk of developing chronic migraines compared to women.

Associated Conditions:
Migraines in men are linked to other health issues, such as coronary heart disease and kidney stones. More research is needed to understand these connections.

Migraine Treatment

Regardless of gender, anyone with migraines should consult a healthcare provider. Proper diagnosis and treatment can prevent medication overuse headaches (MOH).

Treatment Options:

Medications:
- Acute treatments: Ibuprofen, aspirin, or triptans
- Preventative therapies to reduce migraine frequency
Non-Medication Approaches:
- Regular exercise and hydration
- Acupuncture
- Natural remedies (e.g., peppermint, meadowsweet, willow bark)
- CBD oil for pain relief and muscle relaxation

Dietary Considerations:
Blood sugar levels also play a role in migraine prevention. Maintaining stable blood sugar through tailored nutrition can reduce migraine frequency and intensity.

Ebby App:
This digital health tool measures your blood sugar continuously for 14 days via a glucose sensor. By logging meals, it identifies which foods are best suited to stabilize your blood sugar and reduce migraines naturally.

Conclusion

Although migraines are more common in women, the prevalence in men is increasing. Hormonal differences, among other factors, may explain these gender disparities, but more research is needed.

Men often experience fewer reported symptoms and less impact from migraines, but this might be due to underreporting and limited participation in studies. As more men seek professional help, the condition can be better understood and treated.

Migraines are not a minor issue or a sign of weakness. If you’re affected, consult a healthcare provider for the best treatment options. Alongside medication, tools like the Ebby app can offer personalized dietary guidance for migraine prevention.

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About the Author

Jasmin Ostermann

Jasmin is studying for a Master's degree in Nutritional Medicine and has been working as a student trainee at Perfood since December 2021. Through her studies, she has experienced the great impact nutrition can have on people's health and quality of life and that some diseases can even be cured through nutrition. Driven by this, she would like to share her knowledge with you.