Migraines are intense headaches that can last for hours or even days. People who suffer from frequent migraines often experience debilitating symptoms, which can include sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting.

Migraines can also increase the risk of certain diseases, such as stroke and depression, and may indicate an underlying health condition.

What Is a Migraine?

A migraine is a type of headache that is characterized by a severe pulsing or throbbing sensation on one side of the head.

Migraines typically last between four and 72 hours and are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting.

Migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, poor sleep, hormonal changes, certain foods, and changes in the weather. Some people may also be genetically predisposed to migraines.

The Link Between Migraines and Diseases

Studies have found that people who suffer from migraines are at a greater risk for developing certain diseases, such as:.

1. Stroke

One study found that people who suffer from migraines are more than twice as likely to experience a stroke as those who do not.

The risk increases for those who experience migraines with aura, which is a visual disturbance that can occur before or during a migraine.

2. Depression

Depression is a common mental health condition that can cause a persistent feeling of sadness or loss of interest in daily activities. People who suffer from migraines are more likely to experience depression than those who do not.

One study found that migraines increase the risk of developing depression by more than 80 percent.

3. Anxiety

Anxiety is a condition that can cause excessive worry, nervousness, and fear. People who suffer from migraines are more likely to experience anxiety than those who do not.

One study found that migraines increase the risk of developing anxiety by more than 40 percent.

4. Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can cause seizures. People who suffer from migraines are more likely to develop epilepsy than those who do not. One study found that migraines increase the risk of developing epilepsy by more than 50 percent.

5. Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease is a group of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. People who suffer from migraines are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those who do not.

One study found that migraines increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease by more than 40 percent.

6. Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease is a condition that affects the kidneys, which are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood. People who suffer from migraines are more likely to develop chronic kidney disease than those who do not.

One study found that migraines increase the risk of developing chronic kidney disease by more than 70 percent.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you suffer from frequent migraines, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions or possible triggers.

Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as getting more sleep, reducing stress, and avoiding certain foods, to help prevent migraines. They may also prescribe medication to help manage the symptoms of migraines when they occur.