Traumatic Brain Injury: Migraine Headaches Could Cause Brain Damage

Migraines may cause more than head pain, scientists say. Evidence suggests that headaches may act as short-term strokes, causing parts of the brain to lose oxygen. Scientists say that the potential for brain damage means that migraine sufferers need to do all possible to avoid suffering the headaches.

Migraine Headaches May Cause Brain Damage, Mouse Study Shows

"Normally, the focus of migraine treatment is to reduce the pain. We're saying that migraines may be causing brain damage, and that the focus should be on prevention, which will stop not only the pain but also minimize potential damage," said Maiken Nedergaard, the neuroscientist who fronted the research. Deborah Friedman, a neurologist who was not involved in the study, said that several studies have shown that those who suffer migraines are at an increased risk for vascular problems like heart attacks and strokes.