Migraines and Cluster Headaches Occur at Specific Times of Day

New research published in the medical journal Neurology has confirmed that migraines and cluster headaches often follow the body's circadian rhythms. The study found that 71% of cluster headache patients and 50% of migraine patients showed a circadian pattern in their symptoms. The findings could lead to new treatments, including steroids and melatonin, which affect the body's circadian rhythms. Circadian genes were associated with both cluster headaches and migraines, and levels of hormones related to the circadian system, such as cortisol and melatonin, were altered in people with these disorders compared to those without them. While it is still too early to apply these findings to actionable treatment options, the data can help people better understand why headaches can occur at consistent times throughout the day. Azizi Seixas, associate director of the Center for Translational Sleep and Circadian Sciences at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, noted that maintaining a healthy sleep schedule can benefit the body and suggested setting and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime, creating a relaxing sleep environment, and limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, especially in the evening. He also recommended bright light in the morning to help reset the circadian clock and promote alertness while avoiding bright light in the evening to help the body feel more restful.