A study from Aarhus University links migraine to higher risks of heart attack and stroke
Researchers from Aarhus University examined a large population to understand how migraine relates to cardiovascular events. The study, published in a recognized medical journal, found that people who experience migraines may face an elevated risk of ischemic stroke and heart attack compared with those who do not have migraines. The findings emphasize the importance of recognizing migraine not only as a painful neurological condition but also as a potential signal for broader health concerns that merit attention from clinicians and patients alike.
Migraine is a type of headache marked by a throbbing, often intense sensation that typically affects one side of the head. Epidemiological data show that women are disproportionately affected, with figures indicating a higher prevalence among women than men. Although the exact cause of migraines remains unclear, several mechanisms are proposed. Some researchers suggest that periods of narrowed blood vessels or inflammation within the brain could play a role. Additionally, newer insights point to genetic factors that influence circadian rhythms, which may be linked to migraine susceptibility. These lines of evidence help frame migraines as a condition with potential systemic implications beyond headache pain.
In the study, data were drawn from a large group of participants, including hundreds of thousands of women and men aged 18 to 60 who had a history of migraine between the mid-1990s and late 2010s. When compared with individuals without migraines, both sexes showed an increased likelihood of experiencing ischemic stroke or a heart attack. The analysis also revealed that women with migraines faced a higher risk of hemorrhagic stroke and heart attack than men with migraines, underscoring potential sex differences in how migraine relates to cardiovascular outcomes.
To help readers understand the conditions involved, it is useful to distinguish between the two major types of stroke. Hemorrhagic stroke results from bleeding within the brain, while ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks blood flow to brain tissue. In this context, the study focused on the relative rise in risk associated with migraine. Scientists stressed that, although relative risk may appear elevated, the absolute risk for an individual remains relatively small. Nonetheless, given the higher prevalence of migraine among women, these findings raise important considerations about stroke and heart attack risk within this group and highlight the potential value of targeted risk assessment and prevention strategies.
Experts note that observing a higher relative risk does not automatically translate into a high probability for every person. It does, however, signal a population-level association that clinicians should weigh when evaluating migraine patients. The results add to a growing body of literature suggesting that migraines may be a marker for vascular health needs. Lifestyle choices, blood pressure management, cholesterol control, and regular medical checkups become particularly relevant for individuals who experience frequent migraines, especially women, to help mitigate potential cardiovascular risks over time.
While this investigation sheds light on possible connections between migraine and cardiovascular disease, it also prompts further research into the mechanisms driving these associations. Scientists continue to explore how neurovascular changes during migraines could intersect with heart and brain blood vessel health. The emerging picture points to a complex interaction among genetics, hormonal influences, circadian biology, and vascular function. As knowledge evolves, healthcare providers may gain clearer guidance on how to tailor monitoring and prevention for migraine patients, taking into account sex-specific patterns and individual risk profiles.
In the meantime, individuals who experience migraines are encouraged to discuss their headache pattern with a healthcare professional, especially if there are additional risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, or a family history of heart disease. Preventive strategies and coordinated care that address both migraine management and cardiovascular risk can help support overall health. This includes lifestyle measures like regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management, along with appropriate medical treatment when needed. By staying informed and engaged with medical care, migraine sufferers may better navigate their health, balancing the relief from headaches with attention to broader cardiovascular wellness.