One in three people with migraines may face increased stroke risk

Flashing lights, blind spots and blurred vision are just a few ways to describe a migraine with aura. One in three people with migraines experience this temporary sensory disturbance and now face a new concern: an increased risk of stroke.

What is a migraine with aura?

A migraine with aura is a type of headache that includes temporary sensory disturbances, often before or during the headache itself.

Aura symptoms usually last less than an hour and can occur before or during the headache phase. While they can be alarming, they typically resolve on their own.

Can they cause a stroke?

New American Academy of Neurology research found that middle-aged and older adults who experience migraines with aura may have a 73% higher risk of ischemic stroke compared to those without the migraine symptom.

“We frankly don’t know the exact reason for this increased risk,” explains Dr. Arth Srivastava, a vascular neurologist at Advocate Health Care. “But it’s most likely because the electrical changes in the brain that cause aura can also change the pattern of blood flow, which increases risk of stroke. There is also known brain vessel narrowing at the time of migraines that can induce small clot formation leading to stroke.”

What can you do to lower your stroke risk?

While important, reducing migraine frequency isn’t enough to lower stroke risk. Dr. Srivastava says it’s even more important to be extra vigilant about controlling cardiovascular risk factors, which include:

• Modifying your lifestyle: Avoid smoking (tobacco and non-tobacco products), eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight.
• Managing your risks with your primary care doctor: If you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or sleep apnea in addition to migraines with aura, be sure to work with your doctor to manage those conditions and improve your overall stroke risk as much as possible.
• Working with a specialist: A neurologist can help you develop a personalized treatment plan to manage migraines effectively.
• Knowing your triggers: Try to avoid common migraine triggers, such as lack of sleep, dehydration and high stress.
• Prioritizing sleep and hydration: Getting regular, high-quality sleep and proper hydration can help reduce migraine frequency and benefit your overall vascular health.

When should you see a doctor?

“It’s important to see a doctor if your migraines change in frequency, severity or symptoms,” Dr. Srivastava says. “Early evaluation can help rule out other conditions, such as stroke, and ensure you’re getting the right care. Always seek immediate medical attention if you have stroke symptoms, like sudden dizziness, vision loss, one-sided arm or leg weakness, or speech changes.”

Want to learn more about your risk for stroke? Take a free online quiz.