Published at December 2, 2024

Can Migraines Cause Fever? Debunking 10 Migraine Myths

Meta description: Can migraines cause fever? Are they just a headache? There are a lot of misconceptions about migraines, which we clear up in this pain-free article.

As everyone experiences migraines differently, a lot of misconceptions arise as to the nature of a migraine, the symptoms, and the triggers. We want to set the record straight by addressing some of the most commonly shared myths surrounding this common condition.


Not only will we clear the air, but we also hope to help you better manage your migraines. As always, please reach out to our qualified healthcare team with any lingering questions, or to receive quick online treatment for your migraines!

Migraines are ‘Just a Headache’

Migraines are often called headaches, but they are far more than that. They are a neurological condition that can last hours or even days, negatively affecting daily life. Here are some of the common symptoms of migraines:

  • Severe pain on one or both sides of the head
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Sensitivity to sound
  • Auras

Chocolate Triggers a Migraine

One of the most common misunderstandings around migraines is what triggers them. Chocolate can be a trigger for migraines for some people, but it is not a universal trigger. Scientists have actually found that cravings for certain foods, like chocolate can sometimes occur as a premonitory symptom of an impending migraine. This has led to the misconception that chocolate is the cause, when in fact it is just a craving.

Consuming Caffeine Triggers a Migraine

Similarly, people with migraines often stay away from caffeine in the belief that it can trigger their migraines. While some people are more sensitive to caffeine, it is again, not a universal trigger.

Bright Lights Cause Migraines

Sensitivity to light, aka photophobia, is a common symptom during a migraine attack. However, light itself is not necessarily a universal trigger. Certain lighting, such as flickering fluorescent lights can bring on a migraine, but this is not always the case.

Migraine Can Cause Fever

Can migraines cause fever? You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered this. Migraines and fever can be experienced together, but migraines do not cause a fever. A fever is typically brought on by an infection or illness, not a migraine.

Will migraine cause fever symptoms? The answer may be yes. People often experience nausea, vomiting, and head pain with a migraine, symptoms that also manifest in a fever.

No Medicines Can Treat a Migraine

As everyone experiences migraines differently, there isn’t one medication that will aid everyone. There is also no cure for migraines; only treatments. However, many of the treatments are very effective at relieving the symptoms of migraines. Here are a few of the most common:


  • Pain relievers e.g. ibuprofen and aspirin
  • Triptans
  • Topiramate
  • Beta-blockers like metoprolol and propranolol
  • NSAIDs
  • Nausea medication

Migraines Are a Mental Health Disorder

Migraines are a neurological condition, not a mental health disorder. Migraines are linked with stress and emotional factors, but the root cause is more complex neurological and genetic factors rather than psychological ones.

You Need an MRI to Diagnose a Migraine

Imaging tests like an MRI can be used to diagnose migraines, but you can also receive a diagnosis from a clinical evaluation. During the consult, whether in-person or online, you’ll be questioned about your medical history, symptom patterns, and frequency of migraine symptoms.

A Migraine Aura is Always Visual

While visual disturbances are the most commonly recognized symptom of a migraine aura, they are not the only type of aura. Auras can manifest in various forms. Here are some of the possible symptoms of other types of auras:

  • Tingling or numbness that may start in the fingers and spread to other parts of the body
  • Hearing noises or experiencing temporary hearing loss (auditory aura)
  • Experiencing speech and language difficulties (dysphasic aura)
  • Disrupted balance

You Need the Aura Phase to Diagnose a Migraine

While it is a distinctive symptom, auras are not the only way to diagnose a migraine. In fact, only around 20% of migraine patients experience an aura before their migraine.

Online Migraine Treatments & Tools

Migraines can come on quickly without warning, and once you’ve experienced one you understand how important it is to be prepared should another one occur. There are a number of tools that can help, including:


However, many migraine sufferers turn to medication as it is one of the best ways to treat the symptoms quickly and effectively. You can get the help you need from your home by setting up an online consultation with 24HRDoc. During your consultation, one of our doctors can diagnose your migraines and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you avoid triggers. No one should have to suffer with the pain and inconvenience of migraines – get the support you need today from our friendly team at 24HRDoc.