Migraines affect many individuals all over the world. A migraine is characterized as an intense headache along with other symptoms such as dizziness, visual changes, difficulty speaking or being disoriented. Nevertheless, the connection between migraines and damage to the brain is relatively low. Many individuals who suffer from migraines do not suffer from any related damage to the brain or lasting consequences.
Is there a link between migraines and brain damage?
There are certain health conditions that are common among individuals with migraines than those who do not have the condition. The most common include anxiety and depression but it is still vague whether migraines are the exact cause or outcome of these conditions.
The serious health issues that are linked with migraines include epilepsy and stroke since they involve definite damage or impairment to the brain.
Seizures
The connection between migraines and seizures is considered controversial. Individuals who experience seizures might have increased occurrence of the migraines, but it is uncertain whether those who have migraines face a higher risk for seizures.
Based on several studies conducted, it was discovered that there is a change in the brain wave activity in healthy individuals during a migraine attack. Nevertheless, there were no comparisons to the wave changes in the brain usually observed during a seizure episode and there are no evident reports that reveal that migraines can trigger seizures.
Stroke
A stroke involves damage to an area of the brain due to blockage of a blood vessel or bleeding. The outcome of a stroke includes confusion, weakness or loss of vision. Those who have migraines have a slightly increased risk for a stroke. In most cases, a migraine does not actually trigger a stroke but can be a warning indication that someone is at risk for having a stroke.
Individuals who suffer from the condition with an aura might have a slightly higher risk for a stroke than those who suffer from migraines without the aura.
What are the risk factors?
Some individuals have a hereditary irregularity which is called familial hemiplegic migraine that heightens the possibility for migraines with aura which puts one at risk for brain damage. In addition, the electrical changes that occur in some migraine headaches can aggravate the extent of damage to the brain in case a stroke occurs simultaneously. In a study conducted, the chemical changes that occur during a migraine attack can also have an impact on the severity of brain damage due to a stroke.
Prevention
Always bear in mind that migraines are uncomfortable and even debilitating but can be managed with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. In rare cases, migraines can be an indication of another serious condition.
Take note that it is uncommon for migraines to actually trigger brain damage and studies prove that migraines are not a definitive direct cause for brain damage. The management of headaches should focus on safety and comfort. Remember that any changes in the pattern of the migraine attacks must be carefully assessed by a doctor.