Migraines are painful, debilitating headaches that can cause sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting. While migraines themselves can be challenging to manage, research shows that they can also increase the risk of other health problems.

Cardiovascular Disease

A study published in The BMJ found that people who experience migraines with aura (visual symptoms prior to the headache) have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

The study showed that people with migraines with aura were 27% more likely to develop heart disease and 42% more likely to have a stroke than those without migraines. It is believed that the increased risk is related to the effects that migraines have on the blood vessels.

Depression and Anxiety

Migraines can be quite isolating, as they can interfere with daily activities and cause people to miss work or school. This isolation can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety.

Similarly, people who experience chronic pain, such as migraines, are more likely to experience depression and anxiety.

Epilepsy

While the link between migraines and epilepsy is not fully understood, research suggests that people who experience migraines may be more likely to develop epilepsy.

A study published in Neurology found that people with a history of migraines were more likely to develop epilepsy than those without a history of migraines. Additionally, the study found that people with migraines who also experience sensory disturbances, such as tingling or numbness, were at an even higher risk of developing epilepsy.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that affects the muscles, joints, and bones. While the exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, research suggests that people who experience migraines may be more likely to develop fibromyalgia.

A study published in The Journal of Headache and Pain found that people with migraines were more likely to develop fibromyalgia than those without migraines.

Chronic Kidney Disease

A study published in The American Journal of Medicine found that people who experience migraines with aura have an increased risk of chronic kidney disease.

The study showed that people with migraines with aura were 37% more likely to develop chronic kidney disease than those without migraines. It is believed that the increased risk is related to the effects that migraines have on the blood vessels in the kidneys.

Menstrual Disorders

Many women experience menstrual migraines, which are migraines that occur shortly before or during menstruation. These migraines can be especially debilitating, and they can also contribute to menstrual disorders.

Studies have shown that women who experience menstrual migraines may be more likely to have irregular periods or heavy bleeding.

Dementia

A study published in The BMJ found that people who experience migraines with aura have an increased risk of dementia. The study showed that people with migraines with aura were 47% more likely to develop dementia than those without migraines.

It is believed that the increased risk is related to the effects that migraines have on the brain.

Obesity

A study published in Cephalalgia found that people who experience migraines are more likely to be obese. The study showed that people with migraines were 11% more likely to be obese than those without migraines.

While the link between migraines and obesity is not fully understood, it is believed that migraine pain may contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, which can lead to weight gain.

Insomnia

Migraines can interfere with sleep, and a lack of sleep can exacerbate migraine symptoms. This can create a vicious cycle where migraines interfere with sleep, and a lack of sleep worsens migraine symptoms.

Additionally, people who experience migraines are more likely to have insomnia, which can contribute to fatigue, depression, and other health problems.

Autoimmune Diseases

While the link between migraines and autoimmune diseases is not fully understood, research suggests that people who experience migraines may be more likely to develop autoimmune diseases.

A study published in Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain found that people with migraines were more likely to have autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, than those without migraines.