Migraine headaches affect millions of people around the world. They are characterized by a throbbing or pulsating pain on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound.

Migraines can be triggered by various factors, including stress, food allergies, hormonal changes, and even weather changes. While migraines are not life-threatening, they can significantly impair one’s quality of life. Frequent migraine headaches can also pose several health risks, as we will discuss in this article.

Increased Risk of Stroke

Studies have found that individuals who experience migraines with auras (visual disturbances) are at an increased risk of stroke. Auras are transient visual or sensory symptoms that a person may experience before or during a migraine attack.

The exact mechanism linking migraines and stroke is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to changes in blood flow in the brain. Migraine sufferers should be aware of this risk and take necessary precautions, such as controlling blood pressure and not smoking.

Cardiovascular Disease

Research has also shown that individuals who have frequent migraines, particularly women, are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This includes heart attack, angina (chest pain), and heart disease.

The underlying cause of this association is not clear, but it is hypothesized that inflammation and vascular dysfunction play a role. Migraine sufferers should speak to their healthcare provider about their risk for cardiovascular disease and ways to reduce their risk.

Elevated Cortisol Levels

Cortisol is a hormone that is released by the adrenal glands in response to stress.

When cortisol levels are elevated for prolonged periods, it can result in a range of negative health effects, including weight gain, elevated blood pressure, and immune system suppression. Studies have found that individuals who experience chronic migraines have elevated levels of cortisol, indicating that migraines themselves may be a source of stress that leads to increased cortisol production.

To reduce cortisol, migraine sufferers should practice stress-reducing techniques, such as mindfulness meditation and exercise.

Depression and Anxiety

Migraines can take a toll on a person’s mental health. The pain and discomfort associated with migraines can lead to depression and anxiety, both of which can have a negative impact on physical health as well.

In fact, studies have found that individuals with migraines are two to five times more likely to experience depression than those without migraines. To reduce the risk of depression and anxiety, migraine sufferers should seek treatment for their migraines and speak to a mental health professional if necessary.

Sleep Disorders

Sleep disturbances are common among individuals who experience chronic migraines. This includes difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and feeling rested upon waking.

The relationship between migraines and sleep is complex, as sleep disturbances can trigger migraines, but migraines can also disrupt sleep. To minimize the negative effects of sleep disturbances, migraine sufferers should practice good sleep hygiene, such as establishing a regular sleep schedule and avoiding screen time before bed.

Medication Overuse Headache

Medication overuse headache (MOH) is a common problem among individuals who rely too heavily on medications to treat their migraines.

MOH is characterized by headaches that occur more frequently and with increased severity than before, as a result of taking too much medication. MOH can be difficult to treat and may require tapering off medication under medical supervision.

To reduce the risk of MOH, migraine sufferers should work with their healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes non-pharmacological options, such as stress-reducing techniques and lifestyle changes.

Increased Sensitivity to Pain

Chronic pain, including migraines, can lead to a phenomenon known as central sensitization, which is an increased sensitivity to pain.

This means that even mild pain stimuli can be perceived as more painful than they would for someone without central sensitization. This can lead to a reduced pain threshold, so that even minor pain stimuli can trigger a full-blown migraine attack.

To prevent or reduce central sensitization, migraine sufferers should work with their healthcare provider to develop a plan that incorporates non-pharmacological pain management techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and physical therapy.

Impact on Work and Daily Life

Finally, frequent migraines can impact one’s ability to work and perform daily activities. Migraine sufferers may need to take time off work or school to manage their symptoms, which can lead to lost productivity and income.

Migraines can also disrupt social and family activities, leading to isolation and reduced quality of life. To minimize the impact of migraines on daily life, migraine sufferers should work with their healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the prevention and treatment of migraine attacks.

Conclusion

While frequent migraines are not life-threatening, they can pose several health risks that should not be ignored. From increased risk of stroke to central sensitization, frequent migraines can impact both physical and mental health.

As such, migraine sufferers should seek treatment for their condition and work with their healthcare provider to develop a plan that addresses all aspects of their health.