Could intermittent fasting cause headaches?

Question

Hello doctor,

My aunt is having pain in her head. She is 42 years old. Is it fine? She has been doing intermittent fasting. She tries to follow a healthy diet. Could it be something with her brain?

I worry if it is due to aging. She also sometimes skips meals because she fasts. She follows a strict fasting schedule, sometimes going 16 hours without eating. She usually eats between 12 PM and 8 PM and then fasts the rest of the time. Could that cause headaches? She is otherwise healthy, but this head pain is new. I am not sure what to do.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Hunger headaches are your body's way of signaling that you need calories. They do not go away on their own. The best treatment is eating a balanced meal with protein, fruits, vegetables, and carbohydrates. Most people do not need to see their healthcare provider for a hunger headache.

During a fast, you may be more likely to have a headache. This risk is higher for people who are prone to headaches and fast for more than 16 hours a day. A fasting headache is a type of headache. The pain is usually mild to moderate, and you are likely to feel it either throughout your head or only in the front.

Hot or cold showers or baths may relieve a headache for some people. You may also want to rest in a quiet room with a cool cloth on your forehead. Gently massaging your head and neck muscles may provide relief. If your headaches are due to stress or anxiety, you may want to learn ways to relax.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.