McMigraine: Can a happy meal cure a headache?

Anybody who suffers from migraines will know that they can be pretty debilitating, and that you would try anything that promised to offer relief. So, it’s hardly surprising that when a new TikTok trend emerged suggesting that fast food might be the answer, migraine sufferers the world over were prepared to give it a go.

But is there any truth behind the trend? In this post we’re going to break down what a migraine is – and how it differs from a standard headache – and what, if anything can be done about it.

What is a migraine?

A migraine can be different things for different people – some mainly experience visual symptoms, while others are bedridden for days in excruciating pain. The following are the most common types of migraine:

• Migraine with aura – this type of migraine is usually preceded by visual disturbance, tingling, or difficulty speaking that warns the sufferer a migraine is imminent
• Migraine without aura – these migraines come on suddenly with no warning, just immediate, throbbing pain in the head, and often around the eyes
• Chronic migraine – this term is used for patients who suffer from migraines for 15 or more days per month
• Menstrual migraine – as the name suggests, these migraines are linked to hormonal changes, such as puberty, pregnancy and menopause, and can be triggered by certain contraceptive pills
• Vestibular migraine – this type of migraine is characterised by the additional symptoms of vertigo, dizziness and loss of balance
• Hemiplegic migraine – this is the rarest type of migraine and is often confused with a stroke, as it tends to involve temporary weakness on one side of the body

Crucially, a migraine is not the same as a headache. Sufferers are often highly sensitive to light while in the throes of a migraine and are physically unable to continue life as normal.

Most over-the-counter painkillers won’t touch a migraine, and it is very common for patients to need to retreat to a darkened room on their own until the pain has passed, while a standard headache can usually be easily treated with paracetamol.

What causes migraines?

The truth is that no one is exactly sure what the mechanism is that causes some people (around one in seven) to suffer migraines and others not. However, we do know that there are some things that can trigger a migraine attack. Frequent triggers are:

• Hormonal changes (see menstrual migraine, above)
• Changes in the weather – some people are more prone to migraines when the weather is heavy and thundery, for example
• Certain foods – commonly dairy produce, caffeine or alcohol
• Stress
• Lack of sleep
• Dehydration
• Hunger

Can fast food help?

It is unlikely that eating fast food will cure migraines long term – and eating it regularly is likely to cause more problems than it solves – but there may be some short-term relief from consuming something that is high in salt and sugar, particularly if your migraines are triggered by hunger or thirst.

However, it is worth considering that, while TikTokkers might recommend a full fat cola and a portion of fries to treat your migraine, the advice on caffeine in the cola is mixed. Caffeine is a nerve disruptor and an ingredient in some migraine relief medication, but, for some people, caffeine can actually trigger migraine attacks.

So, what can be done?

If you suffer from migraines, the first step is to book a consultation with your GP to discuss the type of migraine you experience and what you consider to be the triggers. There are plenty of medications available that can effectively treat migraine pain, but the right treatment for you will depend on several different factors, which can be discussed in consultation. Studies show that a close relationship between doctor, patient and pharmacist is the best way to provide an effective migraine treatment plan.

For more information or to book a consultation with one of our GPs, please contact us.