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Migraine Increasing Heart Attack & Stroke Risks?

July 29, 2008 - 3:18pm 481 reads comments

Migranies and Strokes

Does your migraine put you at a higher risk for heart attack and stroke? A recent study says yes. As a heart attack-survivor and migraine-sufferer, I was surprised to find out -- yes! Read more in my article originally published at MyHealthyHeartInfo.com

A study released recently by the American Academy of Neurology indicates the risk of stroke for women who have occasional migraines (less than one per month) increases by 45 percent and risk of heart attack increases by 64 percent. For those who suffer from weekly migraines, the risk of stroke triples due to “profound changes in the brain which diminish blood flow to the brain," said Dr. Richard Lipton, vice chairman of neurology at Montefiore Headache Center in New York City.

"Someone with migraine should be sure to manage their other risk factors including high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, and body weight," Lipton said.

Here are some tips to manage your symptoms and limit your risk:

Know the whole picture: When discussing your migraine symptoms and treatment options with your doctor, make sure to ask questions about your heart health as well.

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Mamta Singh

This is depressing because I have been suffering migraines for over a decade. I came across a piece of study that said that the chances of stroke are higher for women whose migraines are 10 years old or under - when the onslaught of the disease is maximum. The chances reduces to some extent in older migraineurs esp those beyond 40 but not menopausal yet. Is this true? I hope it is and hope someone can explain the rationale behind this.

Best Regards,

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