A Migraine often taken as mere headache can be a serious neurological condition that can impact an individual’s life to a great extent. According to some studies, migraines can pose a potential risk to vascular health. It can cause vascular problems like stroke, cardiac arrest, etc.
Migraine
Migraine is a form of headache characterized by severe throbbing or pulsing pain typically on one side of the head. Migraines can also cause nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to sight and hearing. Some individuals may also experience a type of migraine known as “Migraine with aura” that causes sensory and visual disturbances such as flashing lights, black dots, and tingling sensations in the lower or upper limbs before the onset.
Is Migraine a Risk Factor for Vascular Disease?
Studies have shown a potential linkage between migraine and vascular health. The leading cause of this relationship can be the inflammation of the blood vessels that occurs during an episode of migraine leading to long-term vascular disorders. While the exact causes linking the disorders are unknown various possible factors can contribute such as blood clots, inflammation, and hormonal imbalance. Some of the key findings regarding the association are:
Stroke risk: Research has found people who usually suffer from migraine with aura are more prone to getting ischemic stroke. This risk is even higher in women under the age of 45, smokers, and people who use oral contraceptives.
Cardiac arrest: According to some studies, people who suffer from migraine with aura are at great risk of cardiac arrest and other cardiovascular diseases such as anginas and arrhythmia. Some long-term vascular disorders such as hypertension, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes are more likely to affect people with migraine problems.
Blood vessel dysfunction: Migraine is commonly known to induce morphological changes within the blood vessels. Migraines can cause inflammation in the vessels that further leads to atherosclerosis (blockage within the arteries due to buildup of plaque).
Managing the risk
People with migraines are at an elevated risk of encountering vascular disorders. Several preventive measures are recommended to reduce the possible risks such as:
- Controlling the risk factors: Managing diabetes, abnormal cholesterol levels, and blood pressure at their acute stages can be beneficial in reducing further risk. On the other hand, identifying the cause that triggers the migraine and trying to avoid the cause can play a crucial role in the management of the disorders.
- Lifestyle changes: Improving your sedentary lifestyle. Eating healthy, quitting smoking, and engaging in appropriate physical activities are important measures.
- Consulting a healthcare specialist: If you suffer from frequent migraine episodes, it’s essential to consult a healthcare specialist. Discuss your vascular health and understand the potential risk factors that can further contribute to the worsening of overall health.
Conclusion
Migraines are mainly associated with headaches but they can impact the vascular health of an individual through various possible mechanisms. Understanding the triggers, symptoms, and linkage between this condition is necessary to improve your quality of life.
