The Genetic Factor

Migraines Can Be Hereditary  

If migraines seem common in your family, there’s likely a genetic link. Studies show that having one parent with migraines increases your own risk by about 50%. If both parents are affected, the likelihood can rise to 75%. This strong familial pattern indicates that genetic factors play a significant role in migraine sensitivity. 

What’s Happening at the Genetic Level? 

Over 180 genetic variations have been associated with migraines. These variations often impact how the brain processes pain and how blood vessels function. While most migraines are not caused by a single gene, this growing body of genetic research is helping scientists better understand the biological underpinnings of the condition. 

When Migraines Are More Complex 

In rare cases, migraines can be part of a specific genetic condition. Familial hemiplegic migraine, for example, includes temporary numbness or weakness on one side of the body during an attack. Hemiplegic migraines share many symptoms with a stroke. Taking similar precautions like sitting down can be helpful to avoid falling and being hurt from the drop. The condition itself is not life-threatening; however, the side effects like falling or fainting can be life-threatening.  

Keeping a salt packet (1/8th teaspoon) handy is a great way to combat hemiplegic migraines. Acting quickly is important because it can be severe. This form of migraine has been directly linked to mutations in specific genes, highlighting the more severe and hereditary nature of certain migraine types. 

Tracking and Managing Migraine Attacks 

Even with a genetic predisposition, migraines are often influenced by lifestyle and environmental factors. Common reasons for migraine attacks include stress, dehydration, poor sleep, meals skipped, certain foods, hormonal changes, and even weather shifts. Keeping a migraine journal can help identify patterns, what you ate, how you slept, your stress levels, and other possible reasons leading up to an attack. 

Once you recognize your patterns, you can start making adjustments to reduce the frequency or severity (or even prevent) of migraines. For example, staying consistent with meals, managing stress through mindfulness or light activity, and ensuring you get enough rest can all make a big difference. While genes set the stage, your daily habits often influence how migraines actually play out. Living with migraines is not a minor inconvenience, but it does not have to be something that people have to deal with alone.  

Helping Your Family 

Knowing about these migraines can be a significant help in lowering risk factors and minimizing side effects. Simple actions like staying hydrated and keeping a salt packet near you are small but effective ways to help yourself, your family, or others you know who live with migraines.  

If you decide to get genetic testing (not recommended), most of the time the tests will only show that you may have a variant. The possibility of a genetic variant is what is found through the testing not that the gene is actively expressed. For this reason, it is best to not supplement based on genetic testing. If you actively are low in a specific vitamin that is confirmed after blood testing, then it would be reasonable to supplement. As always consult your doctor before taking any supplements.  

References 

Brody, L. (2025, May 8). Gene expression. Genome.gov. https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Gene-Expression#:~:text=Definition&text=Gene%20expression%20is%20the%20process,molecules%20that%20serve%20other%20functions