or have previously had migraine.
Can Migraines Cause Long-Term Harm?
According to the American Headache Society, migraines do not cause long-term brain damage.
The organization cites two population studies that used brain scans of migraine patients and non-migraine patients to assess the long-term impact on the brain.
After 9-10 years, researchers discovered white lesions on the brains of certain migraine patients, although these alterations were unrelated to changes in cognitive or brain function.
The AMF also affirms that research has shown white matter damage in certain migraine patients but that these lesions are typically unrelated to cognitive decline or neurological disorders.
Migraine Complications
Migraine may lead to the problems listed below.
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Extreme sensitivity to light, noises, and odors
- Throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head
Individuals may need stronger prescription pain relievers or antinausea medicines if standard therapies, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are ineffective.
If symptoms do not improve, patients may need hospital care, which may include:
- IV fluids
- Medicine, such as antinausea treatments like ondansetron and anti-seizure
- Antipsychotic drugs like valproate or chlorpromazine
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Migraine Headaches and Other Long-Term Health Consequences
Migraines are unlikely to produce long-term brain damage or impair brain function or cognitive abilities.
Chronic migraine may affect certain people’s quality of life, putting frequent migraine sufferers at risk of