Headaches Caused by Serotonin

Certain types of headaches, including migraines and tension headaches, are associated with serotonin levels outside of the normal range. Medications and lifestyle changes can help manage migraines and tension headaches by helping serotonin levels stay within the normal range.

Prevalence

• Sixteen percent of Americans report having a migraine headache disorder during their lifetime, while 78 percent report having tension-type headaches. Both types are linked to serotonin levels that are outside of the normal range.

Types & Causes

• Tension headaches are due to excessive serotonin levels, which cause blood vessels to constrict. Migraine headaches are due to deficient serotonin levels, which cause blood vessels to dilate.

Diet

• Certain foods, such as red wine, processed meat, aged cheese and cultured dairy products, may lower serotonin levels, leading to the onset of migraine headaches.

Considerations

• Inadequate sleep, lack of regular exercise, high stress level and avoidance of sunlight can decrease serotonin levels, which may lead to a migraine headache.

Treatment

• Medications, including serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may help treat migraines and other headaches that result from serotonin deficiency. Increasing intake of tryptophan or taking a 5-HTP supplement may also help.