Migraine Attacks Linked to Increased Risk of Cardiovascular and Psychiatric Conditions
Migraine, a complex neurological disease characterized by intense, throbbing pain, nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound, affects 12% to 15% of Americans. Women are three times more likely than men to experience migraines, with prevalence jumping to 18% in women after puberty compared to 6% in men. Migraine attacks are not merely severe headaches; they are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disorders and psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Many people often dismiss their symptoms as ordinary headaches, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Mia Minen, director of headache research for the Division of Headache in the Department of Neurology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, emphasizes the importance of recognizing recurring symptoms.