My Healthy Heart Blogs
Heart Disease Associated With Migraines
08/03/07
Diagnosis, Research, General
While no direct cause-and-effect relationship between heart disease and migraines has been established, both men and women who suffer from migraines are at higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
A 15-year analytical study from the Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women's Hospital found that men who suffered from migraines, an intense headache that may cause sensitivity to light and sound, or nausea, were 42 percent more likely to have a heart attack. Migraines were also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease-related death.
Earlier findings have also found this association in women. Still, migraines are not considered a cause of heart disease or heart attack. The relationship between the two medical events will require more research before it can be defined.
As recommended by medical experts, other risk factors such as blood pressure, weight, cholesterol, and levels of physical activity should be monitored as a way to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Sources:
Harvard Health Letter
Archives of Internal Medicine
Chicago Daily Herald
