Migraines are a type of headache that is often accompanied by a pulsing or throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. They can cause symptoms such as increased sensitivity to light, sound, and smell, nausea, and vomiting.

Migraines are a common condition, affecting around 12% of the population. While migraines can be very debilitating, recent research has shown that they are also linked to brain health.

Migraines and Gray Matter Volume

Several studies have found that people who suffer from migraines have lower gray matter volume in certain areas of the brain compared to those who don’t have migraines.

Gray matter is the tissue in the brain that contains neurons, the cells that are responsible for transmitting information between different parts of the brain.

The regions of the brain that are affected by lower gray matter volume in migraine sufferers include the frontal cortex, which is important for decision-making and attention, and the insula, which is involved in processes such as emotion, pain, and cognitive control.

One study published in the journal Neurology in 2020 found that people who had migraines with aura, which are migraines that are preceded by visual disturbances such as flashing lights or blind spots, had lower gray matter volume in the occipital cortex, which is the part of the brain responsible for vision. The study also found that the longer a person had been suffering from migraines, the greater the reduction in gray matter volume in this region.

While it is not yet clear exactly why migraines are associated with lower gray matter volume, it is thought that repeated episodes of migraine headaches may cause damage to the brain’s neurons over time, leading to a reduction in gray matter volume. It is also possible that people who have lower gray matter volume in certain regions of the brain may be more susceptible to developing migraines in the first place.

Migraines and White Matter Changes

In addition to affecting gray matter volume, migraines have also been linked to changes in white matter in the brain.

White matter is the tissue in the brain that contains the axons, the fibers that transmit information between different areas of gray matter. A study published in the journal Cephalalgia in 2016 found that people who had migraines with aura had more abnormalities in their white matter compared to those who didn’t have migraines.

The study also found that the number of these abnormalities was higher in people who had more frequent migraines.

The abnormalities seen in the white matter in migraine sufferers can take a variety of forms, including changes in the thickness of the fibers, the presence of small lesions, and disruptions in the organization of the fibers.

It is not yet clear exactly what is causing these changes in white matter, but it is thought that they may be related to changes in the blood vessels in the brain that occur during a migraine attack.

Implications for Brain Health

The link between migraines and brain health has important implications for people who suffer from this condition.

People who have frequent migraines may be at increased risk for developing cognitive problems later in life due to the changes in gray and white matter that occur. One study published in the journal Neurology in 2017 found that people who had migraines with aura had a 1.5 times greater risk of developing dementia compared to those who didn’t have migraines.

The study also found that the greater the frequency of migraines, the higher the risk of dementia.

While the exact mechanisms linking migraines to cognitive decline are not yet understood, it is thought that the damage to brain tissue caused by repeated migraine attacks may lead to a build-up of amyloid plaques and tau proteins, which are associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. It is also possible that the disruptions to the brain’s blood vessels that occur during a migraine attack may contribute to cognitive decline over time.

Managing Migraines for Brain Health

While there is no cure for migraines, there are a number of ways that people can manage this condition to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Some strategies that may be helpful include:.

Avoiding triggers such as certain foods, lack of sleep, and stress
Taking medications such as triptans, which can help to relieve migraine symptoms
Practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation
Getting regular exercise

By managing migraines effectively, it may be possible to reduce the risk of brain damage and cognitive decline later in life.

It is also important for people who suffer from migraines to speak with their healthcare provider about any concerns they may have regarding their brain health, as there are treatments available that can help to slow the progression of cognitive problems.

Conclusion

Migraines are a common condition that can be very debilitating for those who suffer from them.

Recent research has shown that migraines are also linked to changes in the structure and function of the brain, including lower gray matter volume and abnormalities in white matter. These changes may increase the risk of developing cognitive problems later in life, including dementia. However, by managing migraines effectively, it may be possible to reduce the risk of brain damage and cognitive decline.

If you suffer from migraines, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider about strategies for managing your symptoms and reducing your risk of developing cognitive problems.