Migraines are painful and debilitating headaches that affect millions of people worldwide. They are often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

While migraines are a common condition affecting almost 15% of the population, research has shown that living with migraines can have several surprising risks that you may not be aware of.

Increased Risk of Stroke

A study conducted by the American Heart Association found that women who experience migraines have an increased risk of stroke.

The risk was particularly high for women who experience migraines with aura, a neurological symptom that causes visual disturbances before the onset of a headache. The study found that women with this type of migraine were more than twice as likely to suffer a stroke compared to women who did not experience migraines.

Depression and Anxiety

Living with migraines can also increase the risk of depression and anxiety. A study published in the Journal of Headache and Pain found a strong association between migraines and these mental health conditions.

The study found that individuals who suffer from migraines are more likely to experience depression and anxiety than those who do not. The researchers also found that the frequency and severity of migraines are linked to the severity of depression and anxiety.

Dementia

A study published in the British Medical Journal found that individuals who experience migraines have an increased risk of developing dementia later in life.

The study found that individuals who experience migraines with aura had a 27% increased risk of developing dementia compared to individuals who did not experience migraines. While the exact reason for this association is unknown, researchers believe that the structural changes in the brain caused by migraines may contribute to the development of dementia.

Chronic Pain

Living with migraines can also increase the risk of chronic pain.

A study published in The Journal of Pain found that individuals who experience migraines may be more likely to develop chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, and temporomandibular joint disorder. The study found that individuals who experienced migraines were three times more likely to develop these conditions compared to individuals who did not experience migraines.

Sleep Disorders

Living with migraines can also lead to sleep disorders. A study published in The Journal of Headache and Pain found that individuals who experience migraines are more likely to suffer from insomnia and other sleep disorders.

The study found that over 50% of individuals with migraines also report suffering from insomnia. The researchers believe that the pain and anxiety associated with migraines may contribute to sleep disturbances.

Compromised Immune System

A study published in the European Journal of Neurology found that individuals who experience migraines may have compromised immune systems.

The study found that the immune systems of individuals who experience migraines were less effective at fighting infections compared to individuals who did not experience migraines. The researchers believe that the chronic inflammation associated with migraines may be the reason for this link.

Cardiovascular Disease

A study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association found that individuals who experience migraines have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

The study found that individuals who experience migraines with aura are 45% more likely to suffer a heart attack and 47% more likely to suffer from a stroke compared to individuals who do not experience migraines.

Pregnancy Complications

Living with migraines can also lead to pregnancy complications.

A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that pregnant women who experience migraines are more likely to experience pre-eclampsia, a potentially life-threatening complication of pregnancy characterized by high blood pressure and damage to the organs. The study also found that pregnant women who experience migraines are more likely to have a premature delivery.

Migraines can also have a significant impact on relationships and social life.

A study published in The Journal of Headache and Pain found that individuals who experience migraines may have lower social activity levels and spend less time with friends and family. The study found that individuals with migraines were more likely to avoid social activities due to fear of having an attack or difficulty leaving the house due to pain or other symptoms.

Employment Difficulties

Living with migraines can also lead to employment difficulties. A study published in Cephalalgia found that individuals who suffer from migraines are more likely to miss work or school due to their condition.

The study also found that individuals with migraines are more likely to experience reduced productivity and lower income due to their condition.

Conclusion

Migraines are a common condition that can have several surprising risks.

Living with migraines can increase the risk of stroke, depression, anxiety, dementia, chronic pain, sleep disorders, compromised immune system, cardiovascular disease, pregnancy complications, and employment difficulties. Therefore, it is essential to seek treatment and support to manage migraines and reduce their impact on daily life and long-term health.