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Migraine Headache ResearchThe following migraine research focuses on new approaches to prevent and treat migraines. PreventionGenetic studiesMigraine headaches are believed to be caused by inherited mutations in genes that control the activities of certain brain cells. Researchers are investigating which genes are involved and how their actions result in the development of migraine headaches.Heart and stroke riskPeople with migraines have a higher risk of developing a stroke. Studies indicate that men with migraines are more likely to experience a heart attack than men who don't get migraines. Moreover, women younger than 45 who get migraines (especially migraines with aura) have 3 times the risk of getting a stroke than younger women who don't get migraines. Women who also use oral contraceptives further increase their risk. Preventive medicationsResearch indicates that people with migraines may develop brain damage as their brain cells swell and become starved of oxygen during a migraine attack. The studies suggest that migraine sufferers should take preventive medications to reduce the brain cell damage that results from oxygen deprivation. TreatmentOccipital nerve stimulatorsAn occipital nerve stimulator is a surgically implanted neurostimulator that sends electrical impulses to spinal nerves at the base of the neck. This device is being researched as a treatment for migraine sufferers who are unable to use prescription migraine medications. Patent foramen ovale (PFO)
PFO is a hole in the wall that divides the right and left atrium (chambers) of the heart. The hole typically closes before birth. Research indicates a higher prevalence of PFO among migraine sufferers than people without migraine. Studies are investigating if surgically closing PFOs in migraine sufferers can prevent or limit the number of future migraine attacks. Transcranial magnetic stimulation TMSTranscranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a nonsurgical technique that sends weak electric pulses into the brain to stimulate brain circuits. Researchers are investigating if TMS sent to the occipital lobe of the brain (visual cortex) can be used to treat migraine headaches. YogaGentle yoga postures and breathing techniques have been used to calm a person's nervous system and help alleviate pain. Researchers are investigating the use of yoga therapy to treat migraine headaches. Migraine brain changesA recent study has found that people with repeated migraines have a thickening in an area of their brains that helps process pain. It's not clear whether migraines cause the brain thickening or the brain thickening predisposes people to migraine attacks. The researchers believe that these brain changes may explain why people with repeated migraine attacks are more likely to develop other pain disorders, such as back pain and fibromyalgia (inflammation of the fibrous or connective tissue).
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