Migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by a recurring headache that is often accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light, sound, or smells, and nausea.

An ischemic stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is blocked, resulting in cell death and loss of brain function. While migraine and ischemic stroke are two different conditions, recent studies have shown that there is a connection between them.

In this article, we will explore the link between migraine and ischemic stroke and ways to lower the risk of stroke in people who suffer from migraines.

What is Migraine?

Migraine is a chronic neurological disorder that affects approximately 12% of the global population. It is characterized by a moderate to severe headache that can last from 4 to 72 hours.

Migraine headaches can be accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light, sound, or smells, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision. Migraine attacks can occur once or twice a year or as often as several times a week, and the pain can be debilitating, affecting a person’s ability to conduct daily activities.

What is Ischemic Stroke?

Ischemic stroke is a type of stroke that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is blocked, often by a blood clot. When the blood supply is cut off, the brain tissue is deprived of oxygen and nutrients, which can cause brain cells to die.

This can lead to a range of symptoms, including difficulty speaking, weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, and even death.

The Connection Between Migraine and Ischemic Stroke

Several studies have shown a link between migraine and ischemic stroke. In fact, people who suffer from migraines are at a higher risk of having a stroke than those who do not suffer from migraines.

Migraine is a risk factor for ischemic stroke, particularly in women under the age of 45. A meta-analysis of 21 studies found that women with migraine with aura had a more than twofold increase in risk of ischemic stroke compared with women without migraine.

However, it is important to note that not all migraines are the same, and the risk of stroke may vary depending on the type of migraine a person experiences.

Migraine with aura, which is characterized by visual disturbances such as flashing lights or zigzag lines before the onset of a headache, appears to be a greater risk factor for ischemic stroke than migraine without aura.

Why Does Migraine Increase the Risk of Ischemic Stroke?

The exact reason why migraine increases the risk of ischemic stroke is unknown. However, there are several theories that attempt to explain the connection between the two conditions.

One theory is that the blood vessels in the brain of people who suffer from migraines are more prone to narrowing, which can lead to a higher risk of blood clots and stroke.

Another theory is that migraines with aura may be caused by small areas of the brain not receiving enough blood flow, which can lead to damage and inflammation, and increase the risk of stroke.

Additionally, people who suffer from migraines may have other risk factors for stroke, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or smoking.

Reducing the Risk of Stroke in Migraine Sufferers

If you suffer from migraines, there are things you can do to lower your risk of stroke. Here are some tips:.

1. Control your blood pressure

High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for stroke. If you have high blood pressure, work with your doctor to bring it down to a healthy level.

2. Quit smoking

Smoking increases the risk of stroke and other health problems. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your health.

3. Manage your cholesterol levels

High levels of cholesterol in the blood can lead to the formation of plaques in the arteries, which can increase the risk of stroke. Take steps to maintain healthy cholesterol levels through diet and exercise or medication as prescribed by your doctor.

4. Control diabetes

Diabetes can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of stroke. If you have diabetes, work with your doctor to manage your blood glucose levels and reduce your risk of complications.

5. Take medication as prescribed

If you have been prescribed medication to manage your migraines or reduce your risk of stroke, make sure to take it as directed by your doctor.

Conclusion

There is a clear connection between migraine and ischemic stroke, and people who suffer from migraines are at a higher risk of having a stroke than those who do not.

While the exact reason for this connection is unknown, several theories attempt to explain it. By controlling risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, and high cholesterol levels, people with migraines can reduce their risk of stroke.

By taking steps to reduce your risk of stroke, you can minimize the impact migraines have on your life.