January 16, 2013
Researchers show migraine and heart risk link in women
Women who have migraines with aura may be more likely to
have a heart or stroke, according to new research.
Analysing data from the 15-year Women’s Health
Study, involving nearly 28,000 women, researchers say migraines
with aura were the second strongest single
contributor to heart attack and stroke risk, behind high
blood pressure.
Migraines with aura include
seeing flashing light or zigzags in front of
your eyes, a stiff neck and a numbness or tingling.
Keeping active, eating a healthy diet and not smoking will reduce your risk of developing heart trouble
Maureen Talbot, our
Senior Cardiac Nurse, said: “Like all of us, those who experience
migraine with aura need to do all they can to
look after
their heart and reduce their risk of having
a heart attack.
“Prevention is better than
cure and keeping physically
active, eating a healthy diet and
not smoking will reduce your risk of
developing heart trouble. Anyone who is worried about the findings
of this study should talk to their doctor so they
can be assessed and ensure they are receiving the right treatment
for their migraines.”
The study was presented at the
American Academy of Neurology's 65th Annual
Meeting in San Diego.