Articles tagged with Migraines
A new study using smartphone app data found certain medications like triptans, ergots, and anti-emetics to be two to five times more effective than ibuprofen for migraine treatment. Researchers analyzed over 3 million treatment attempts with various medications, including NSAIDs and combination therapies.
Researchers identified a link between neck muscles and primary headaches, including tension-type headaches and migraines. Muscle T2 values were found to be significantly associated with headache frequency and neck pain.
Researchers found that three medicines - CGRP inhibitors, amitriptyline, and simvastatin - had a better preventive effect on migraine than traditional beta blockers. This discovery could have significant implications for healthcare costs, as the cheaper alternatives may offer similar treatment effects.
A large international study has identified genetic variants associated with rare forms of migraine, providing insights into novel therapeutic targets. The study found associations with 44 variants, including three rare variants that point to distinct pathologies underlying different types of migraine.
A meta-analysis of 28 studies involving 154,739 participants found a strong association between childhood traumatic events and adult headache disorders. People who experienced one or more traumatic childhood events were 48% more likely to have headache disorders than those who had not.
A new UK study finds that people with eating disorders are 2.11 times more likely to report physical multimorbidity. Anxiety, insomnia, and perceived stress are key influencers in this relationship.
Research published in European Journal of Neurology indicates that COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccination have negligible effects on migraine severity. Among participants who reported worsening migraines, those infected were 2.5-times more likely to be concerned about migraine worsening than those vaccinated.
A recent study found that pain in the lower limbs of children and adolescents may indicate the presence or risk of migraines. The study included 100 children with mothers who experienced migraines, with growing pains occurring in half of them. After five years of follow-up, headaches occurred in 76% of participants with growing pains.
The American Heart Association has funded seven new scientific research projects to explore the connection between migraines, strokes, and cardiovascular disease. The studies will analyze existing datasets using machine learning and aim to create a collaborative group of experts to uncover the causes of increased risk.
A nationwide Danish study found that both men and women with migraine have a similarly increased risk of ischemic stroke. Women with migraine may also have a slightly higher risk of heart attack and hemorrhagic stroke compared to men and the general population.
Researchers analyzed data from 120 clinical trials and found no evidence that treatment efficacies differ depending on the number of comorbidities. The study suggests that modest levels of comorbidities do not affect treatment outcomes, providing valuable insights for clinicians to make informed recommendations.
A study suggests that ketamine nasal spray is a convenient alternative to intravenous infusion for treating refractory chronic migraine. The treatment showed promise in reducing daily headaches and improving quality of life, with most participants reporting 'very effective' results.
A new drug, atogepant, has shown promise in preventing migraines for people who have had no success with other preventive drugs. In a preliminary study, participants taking the drug experienced fewer days with migraine compared to those taking a placebo.
Tulane University researchers discovered a possible genetic cause of hypermobility and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, linking it to folate deficiency due to the MTHFR gene variation. Elevated folate levels in blood tests can aid in diagnosis, while methylated folate has shown promising treatment results for patients.
A meta-analysis found strong links between cluster headache and migraine and the circadian system, with specific patterns of attacks and hormonal associations. The study suggests using circadian-based treatments as a potential new approach for headache disorders.
A new study found that low estrogen levels are paired with higher calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) levels in female participants with migraine. Researchers collected blood and tear fluid samples from three groups of women with episodic migraine to determine CGRP concentrations, revealing significant fluctuations during menstruation.
Research at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin identifies a possible explanation for migraine frequency during menstruation: higher levels of CGRP, a neurotransmitter that triggers migraines. The study found significant differences in CGRP concentrations between women with migraines and those without, suggesting a hormonal link.
A recent study published in Human Genetics has confirmed the genetic link between migraine and blood sugar levels, identifying shared loci and genes. The researchers found a significant correlation between fasting insulin and glycated haemoglobin with both migraine and headache.
A new study found that women with pre-pregnancy migraine had greater risks of preterm delivery, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia. Migraine with aura was associated with a higher risk of preeclampsia than without aura.
A recent review in CMAJ provides comprehensive guidance on diagnosing and managing migraine attacks. It emphasizes a stratified approach to treatment, empowering patients to choose medications tailored to their needs and attack symptoms.
Women with cluster headaches experience longer-lasting and more frequent attacks than men, contributing to a higher rate of chronic cluster headache. The study suggests that these differences may contribute to the disorder being misdiagnosed in women.
Researchers analyzed nearly 9,600 patients who underwent nerve decompression surgery for upper extremity conditions and found a higher likelihood of migraine diagnosis. The study suggests a possible biologic and genetic overlap between carpal tunnel syndrome and migraines.
A history of migraines is associated with poor sleep in premenopausal women, but the relationship changes in perimenopausal women due to factors like body mass index, anxiety, and hot flashes. Poor sleep quality significantly impacts work productivity and quality of life, costing the US economy approximately $411 billion annually.
A global consortium study aims to understand the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the brain, with researchers evaluating over 1,000 participants worldwide. The study, led by UT Health San Antonio, uses advanced brain imaging and neuropsychological tests to assess cognitive function and identify potential causes of long-term brain changes.
A Rutgers study finds CBD improves glucose disposal, burns energy, and enhances bone density in estrogen-deficient mice. The compound also reduces inflammation and boosts beneficial gut bacteria.
Researchers at Salk Institute discover a molecule called CGRP that enables neurons to bundle threatening sensory cues into a unified signal, conveying it to the amygdala. The study may lead to new therapies for fear-related disorders such as PTSD and autism.
A study published in the Journal of Child Neurology found that stress, decreased physical activity, and increased screen time during the pandemic worsened headaches and mental health in children. The study, which analyzed data from 107 pediatric patients, highlights the impact of disruptions to daily life on kids with headache disorders.
The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) has approved funding awards totaling $258 million to support 26 new research studies. These studies aim to fill evidence gaps and improve healthcare decision making for a range of high-burden conditions, including mental health, heart conditions, asthma, bone fractures, and sinus...
A study by University of Toronto researchers found that childhood physical abuse is associated with chronic pain, diabetes, cancer, migraines, arthritis, and heart disease in later life. The trauma can influence both physical and mental health many decades after the event.
A new therapy called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Headache (CBTH) significantly reduced related disability in veterans following a traumatic brain injury. It also showed comparable reductions in co-occurring symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with low drop-out rates and ease of use for therapists.
A study reveals that valproic acid induces cellular senescence in neuroepithelial cells, leading to developmental defects such as spina bifida, facial alterations, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. The researchers found that a specific molecule, p19Arf, is responsible for this effect.
Researchers have found blood proteins that cause migraine, including DKK1 and PDGFB, which inhibit Wnt signalling pathways. Lower levels of antioxidant proteins FARS2, GSTA4, and CHIC2 also contribute to inflammation linked to migraine. Therapies targeting increased DKK1 levels may represent novel tools for treatment.
A new review estimates that 52% of the global population experience a headache disorder each year, with significant variations in prevalence rates across different age groups and regions. The study also highlights differences in diagnostic methods and their impact on estimated rates.
Researchers have created an online resource that maps the cell types and genes expressed in the human and mouse trigeminal ganglion, a key relay center for migraine and facial pain. The atlas identifies potential therapeutic targets that are selectively expressed in cells driving head pain.
A study found that 25.3% of children with mild head injuries continue to suffer from persistent post-concussion syndrome for years, often misdiagnosed as ADHD or sleep disorders. The syndrome causes chronic symptoms like forgetfulness, memory problems, and sensitivity to light and noise.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen finds that people with migraine or frequent tension headaches face significant difficulties at work, including memory and decision-making problems. The study highlights the importance of workplace accommodations and support for those affected by these conditions.
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system generate pain signals during migraines. Blocking these signaling pathways using nanoparticles offers promise for novel migraine treatments.
A groundbreaking genome-wide association study identified 123 genetic regions linked to migraine risk, including two specific genes targeted by recently developed drugs. The study provides insight into the biological basis of migraine and its subtypes, paving the way for new treatments.
A new study using the world's largest twin registry data finds that hormone levels before birth may contribute to migraine risk in adulthood. The research also suggests that genetic factors for migraine risk are different between men and women, potentially leading to more effective treatment options.
Cluster headaches are extremely painful and occur in cyclical patterns. The study found that pediatric-onset cluster headache affects 27.5% of survey participants but only 15.2% were diagnosed before age 18.
A plant-based diet rich in dark green leafy vegetables may help alleviate chronic migraine symptoms, according to doctors. The LIFE diet, which includes dark green veggies and limits animal protein, reduced the patient's migraines from 18 days a month to just one day a month.
Researchers at QUT identified causal genetic links to three blood metabolite levels that increase migraine risk. These findings could lead to the development of compounds that target metabolite levels and prevent migraines.
A study of over 3,300 women found that those with a history of migraines were more likely to experience severe or very severe hot flashes and worse menopause symptoms. The research suggests neurovascular dysregulation may explain the link between migraines and hot flashes, as well as their association with heart disease.
A meta-analysis of 32 studies involving 10,243 participants found that adults and children with migraines have poorer sleep quality and shorter REM sleep times than those without migraines. Children with migraines also have less total sleep time, more wake time, and faster sleep onset.
A study published in PAIN found that weather-related factors can affect pain tolerance, particularly for cold-induced pain. Temperature, barometric pressure, and humidity were associated with changes in pain tolerance tests, suggesting a dynamic and non-linear relationship between weather and pain.
Researchers found that certain peptides associated with migraine pain can regulate insulin production in mice, potentially preventing type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that these peptides could be developed into therapeutic strategies to control blood sugar levels, while minimizing the risk of migraines.
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that people with migraines experienced more dizziness and motion sickness during virtual roller coaster rides compared to those without migraines. Brain scans revealed abnormal nerve cell activity in areas responsible for visual processing and motor activity.
A new study published in The BMJ found that patients diagnosed with migraines experienced less pain when following a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and low in omega-6 fatty acids. Participants reported fewer days of headaches per month, but not a change in quality of life.
A recent trial found that consuming a diet high in omega 3 fatty acids significantly reduces headache frequency and severity compared to a typical diet. The study, published in The BMJ, suggests that increasing omega 3 intake can lead to reduced levels of pain-reducing oxylipins and improved quality of life for those with migraines.
A new study by NIH-funded researchers found that a diet higher in fatty fish and lower in vegetable oils can reduce the number of migraines and intensity of pain. Participants experienced a 30-40% reduction in headache hours per day compared to those on a control diet.
A new study from the University of Toronto found that 63% of Canadians with migraines experience almost daily happiness and high levels of social and psychological well-being. Those who had a confidant or used spiritual coping mechanisms were more likely to be in excellent mental health.
A new twin study reveals that certain genes are similarly affected in PTSD and migraine, suggesting they may share some risk factors. The study found common epigenetic changes between the two conditions, which could lead to new treatment targets.
A new study has found that pregnant women with migraines are at a higher risk of obstetric and postnatal complications. Migraine pregnant women had increased risks of gestational diagnosis of diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and blood clots.
Research reveals a strong link between hyperhomocysteinemia and migraine with aura in rats, showing elevated HCY levels increase susceptibility to cortical spreading depression. The study suggests timely correction of high homocysteine levels may be beneficial for treating migraine-related symptoms.
Researchers used genetic methods to examine 12 coagulation measures, uncovering four factors associated with migraine susceptibility in individuals with aura. The study suggests a potential causal role of hemostatic factors in migraines with aura.
Researchers found that decreased neuronal complexity may be a feature of chronic migraine and propose restoring this complexity as a treatment. HDAC6 inhibition restored cytoskeletal flexibility and relieved migraine-associated pain.
A study found that women with a history of migraine before menopause are at a 29% higher risk of developing high blood pressure after menopause. This association was observed even among those without aura and could be linked to early signs of arterial stiffness.
Michael A. Moskowitz, a leading migraine researcher supported by the NIH, has won The Brain Prize 2021 for his groundbreaking contributions to understanding migraine triggers. By blocking the action of released neuropeptides, Moskowitz proposes a new approach to treating this debilitating condition.
Research suggests that using cannabis for migraine relief may lead to medication overuse headache in patients with chronic migraine. The study found that individuals using cannabis had a significantly higher risk of developing medication overuse headache compared to those who did not use cannabis.
People with chronic migraine are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and sleep problems if they don't get enough exercise. Researchers found that a minimum of two-and-a-half hours of moderate to vigorous exercise per week can reduce migraine triggers.