The Link Between Chronic Migraines and Dementia

/ Thomas Cohn, MD

migrainesNew research published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found a link between chronic migraines and the eventual onset of dementia, especially in women.

For the study, researchers examined 7,400 study participants between the ages of 60 and 80. Half of the group said they suffered from regular migraines, while the other half were migraine free. The goal of the study was to see if a migraine diagnosis could impact a person’s likelihood of developing dementia within 10 years of the migraine diagnosis, independent of any other medical issues the individual had.

At the conclusion of the 10-year period, researchers uncovered that over five percent of individuals with migraines had been diagnosed with dementia, while just over 3.5 percent of those without migraines received the same diagnosis. Moreover, when examined by sexes, nearly six percent of women who suffered from migraines went on to develop dementia within 10 years.

“Our results indicate that elderly people with migraine headaches should be regularly screened for cognitive decline and dementia,” researchers concluded. “Furthermore, offering adequate treatment and management to migraine patients is important, as it may help prevent the subsequent development of dementia.”

Not only does there appear to be a link between migraines and dementia, but previous studies have found an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and cardiovascular issues in women that suffer from migraines, so proactive treatment is important.

Migraine Treatment

Migraines and headaches are two conditions that we help treat, and we recommend seeking professional help if you suffer from chronic headaches because every case is different. We’ll provide you with a comprehensive diagnosis and then walk you through some treatment options. If a treatment isn’t providing relief, we’ll move on to different techniques until we find one that works for you. Some common treatment options that have helped patients find relief include:

  • Exercise
  • Weight loss
  • Relaxation Therapy
  • Diet Changes
  • Monitoring and Adjusting Caffeine or Beverage Consumption
  • Acupressure
  • Daith Piercing
  • Muscle relaxers
  • Other Medications

We won’t stop until we find a solution that works for you. For many individuals, their migraines may also be linked to a chronic pain condition, which we can also help treat. Pain is a complex issue that is best handled through a team approach, so do right by your body and contact Dr. Cohn and his team today.