Migraines Linked to Higher Risk of Irregular Heartbeat, Stroke
Migraines accompanied with visual auras linked to higher risk of atrial fibrillation, according to a new study.
A new study published in the journal Neurology has found linkages between migraine accompanied with visual auras to higher risk of atrial fibrillation and stroke. The decades long study focused on those who experience visual disturbances before the painful migraine sets in.
These visual auras can manifest as flashes of light, blind spots, lines or blurred vision.
According to Mayo Clinic, atrial fibrillation is an irregular, rapid heart rate that can lead to stroke, heart failure and other complications.
During 20 years of follow-up, 18 percent of patients with migraine with aura, 14 percent of patients with migraine without aura and 17 percent of patients without any headaches developed atrial fibrillation or irregular heartbeat.
Those with migraine with aura were 30 to 40 percent more likely to develop AFib compared to those without any headaches and those who had migraines minus the aura.
The authors concluded that migraine with aura was associated with increased risk of incident of AFib. This may potentially lead to ischemic strokes.
It’s important to note that only a quarter of patients with migraine have visual auras. Other symptoms include, throbbing pulsating pain, sound sensitivity, light sensitivity, nausea, blurred vision.
Triggers can range from missing a meal, to bright lights and sounds, weather changes, lack of sleep and menstruation in women.
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