Depression and migraine

April 2, 2012

Depression is more likely to occur in people with migraines, but migraines are also more likely to develop in those who suffer from depression first. A new Canadian study reexamined this link in 15,254 people. They confirmed this association, but unlike in previous studies the researchers from Calgary discovered that this bi-directional relationship is symmetrical. That is, if you have migraines you are 80% more likely to develop a major depressive episode, but if suffer from depression first, you are only 40% more likely to develop migraines. They found that childhood trauma and stress may be a contributing factor to both conditions. The authors of the study discuss the fact that common genetic abnormalities may also predispose people to both conditions.

Written by
Alexander Mauskop, MD