In a major step toward understanding the biology of migraine attacks, researchers have discovered a mutation that causes the disorder in several families. While the function of the protein has not yet been identified, this molecular clue to the disease is helping researchers probe further into the underlying causes. As a teenage student athlete, Emily… [Continue Reading]
Clinical Evaluation Needed for Women to Identify Their Migraine Triggers
April 8, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Many who suffers migraines wish to identify their triggers, in order to avoid the debilitating attacks. A new study shows that correctly identifying triggers is extremely difficult for people to do at home, and clinical evaluation is necessary to get it right. Women often point to stress, hormones, alcohol, or even the weather as possible… [Continue Reading]
Nerve Stimulator Reduces Frequent Migraines
February 6, 2013 By Leave a Comment
For those suffering from frequent migraines, simulation of the supraorbital nerve may be able to provide some relief, a new study has found. Researchers have shown that individuals treated with the technique had a reduction of 2 migraine-days per month. Wearing a nerve stimulator for 20 minutes a day may be a new option for… [Continue Reading]
Migraine Not Linked to Dementia
August 17, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Individuals that suffer from migraines may be concerned about whether their headaches might be accompanied by problems in the brain as they age. A new study suggests that although migraines are linked to a higher risk of stroke, they do not have a higher likelihood of cognitive decline or dementia. Migraines currently affect about 20… [Continue Reading]
Correlation Found Between Suffering from Migraines and Depression
February 22, 2012 By Leave a Comment
The incidence of depression is higher in women suffering from migraines, a new study has demonstrated. The work examined thousands of women, and found that those having a history of any type of migraine had a 40% greater chance of developing depression. The finding suggests that there may be a common cause between the two… [Continue Reading]
Search for Genetic Causes of Migraines Underway
June 10, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Migraines run in families, suggesting the condition has a genetic component. The search is underway for genes that are linked to a predisposition to the attacks, as researchers recently discussed at a scientific meeting on the topic of migraine. The discovery of a gene for migraine holds great promise in the quest for new approaches… [Continue Reading]
Drugs to Prevent Migraines After Warning Signs Under Development
June 9, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Because many sufferers experience visual symptoms before a migraine, researchers are trying to develop medications that can ward off the attacks. One class of drugs, triptans, has been established as effective to prevent migraines when taken when warning symptoms begin, and researchers discussed the biology of migraines and their treatment at a scientific meeting last… [Continue Reading]
Key Locations for Botox Injections Mapped to Treat Migraines
May 12, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Injection of Botox, which is a toxin that paralyzes muscles, is gaining popularity as a treatment for migraine. Researchers have determined the anatomical locations on the head and neck where injection of the toxin best treats the disease. Scientists at the University of Granada have confirmed that injecting a local anesthetic or botulinum toxin (botox)… [Continue Reading]
Surgery for Migraine Reduces Severity and Frequency of Headaches
February 2, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Relieving the pressure on nerves in the face can ease migraine headaches, researchers have found. It was known that for some patients, Botox treatments, which paralyzes nerves, caused an improvement in the severity and frequency of migraines. Now, surgeons have developed techniques to give more permanent relief. Surgery to “deactivate” migraine headaches produces lasting good… [Continue Reading]
Gene Associated With Common Migraines Discovered
September 27, 2010 By Leave a Comment
An international study has identified a gene associated with common migraines. Their findings show that a mutation in the KCNK18 gene inhibits the function of a protein called TRESK. TRESK normally plays a key role in nerve cell communication. This study may have implications for people who suffer from recurrent headaches, which include more than… [Continue Reading]