Exploring Genetic Link Between Migraines, Cardiovascular Trouble
TUESDAY, Feb. 17 (HealthDay News) -- In a finding that speaks to the complicated connection between having migraines with aura and an increased risk of cardiovascular trouble, Harvard researchers report that a gene variant that was suspected to be a link between the conditions is not but that two genotypes could well be.
"Migraine with aura, in women in particular, is associated with about a doubling of the risk of stroke and heart attack," said Dr. Richard Lipton, director of the Montefiore Headache Center in New York City.
Research has shown a strong relationship between migraines and an increased risk for stroke, heart attack and cardiovascular disease, especially in women and especially in those also experiencing auras, or visual disturbances, right before their migraine.
Researchers believe the association might be neurovascular and have been on the prowl for genes that might explain the link.
Their theory is bolstered by the fact that both migraines and cardiovascular disease can be treated effectively with ACE inhibitors, drugs that inhibit the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is critical to cardiovascular health.
Add A New Comment
Add A New CommentComments
There are no comments yet. Be the first to get the conversation started.