Migraine headache severity linked with LDL and total cholesterol levels

Migraine headache severity linked with LDL and total cholesterol levels According to new research a link has been made between severe migraines and LDL and total cholesterol. An estimated 37 million Americans suffer from migraines, and about two to three million of those sufferers experience chronic migraines.

Migraines typically occur more in females, individuals between the ages of 35 and 55, low incomes groups and Caucasian people. Migraines can range in severity, and it’s reported that 91 percent of sufferers miss out on work or can’t function due to severe migraines.

Migraines are an inherited neurological disorder, occurring when hyper-excitable brain networks become triggered. Triggers for migraines may include fragrances, alcohol and light glare. Symptoms of migraine include throbbing or pulsating pain, sensitivity to light, sensitivity to sound, nausea, pain on one side, changes to vision, blurry vision, aura and vomiting.

The World Health Organization lists migraines as one of the top 20 disabling medical illnesses and, unfortunately, chronic migraines are even more disabling. Individuals with migraines are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, sleep disorders and fatigue. Furthermore, migraine suffers who experience auras are at higher risk of stroke and heart attack.

Less than one percent of the National Institutes of Health budget is allotted to research, thus much is unknown about migraines. More research is needed in the exploration of migraines to not only better understand their cause, but to be able to offer individuals more effective treatment, so they no longer have to experience such debilitating pain.

Cholesterol levels and migraine severity

Researchers from the University of Chieti-Pescara, Italy, examined the cholesterol levels of 52 patients with migraines. Researchers found higher readings of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol were associated with an increase in the frequency of migraines. In patients who received treatment, the number and frequency of migraines was reduced with the reduction of total and LDL cholesterol.

The authors wrote, “This study shows a significant positive association between migraine frequency and intensity with total and LDL cholesterol, demonstrating for the first time a significant reduction of these lipid parameters after migraine prophylaxis. These results should be considered as preliminary, to be confirmed by future prospective controlled trials.”

Tips to avoid migraine triggers

Although there are many common triggers, each individual is different; it’s important to learn what your triggers are so you can avoid them. First let’s list off some common triggers so you can begin to narrow down your search.

Stress
Menstrual periods
Changes in sleep pattern
Extreme fatigue
Certain foods and beverages
Too much caffeine or withdrawal
Skipping meals or fasting
Changes in weather
Exercise
Smoking
Bright, flickering lights
Odors

Now that you recognize some common triggers, here are some effective tips you can use to successfully avoid such triggers.

Watch what you eat or drink – you may need to use a food diary to narrow down which foods or beverages are triggering your migraines.
Minimize caffeine intake, but be wary about cutting it out completely because that can cause withdrawal.
Monitor your exercise.
Reduce your stress.
Get regular sleep.
Stop smoking or cut down.
Request friends and family avoid wearing strong scents, like perfumes or laundry detergents.
Eat regularly.

Lower LDL cholesterol to reduce migraine severity

The research shows there is an association between total and LDL cholesterol, so it may also be a good idea to keep your cholesterol in healthy range. Not only will healthy cholesterol minimize your migraines, but it can improve your overall health as well. Below are the top five ways to improve your cholesterol.

Eat heart healthy foods – choose healthy fats, eliminate trans fats and consume more soluble fiber.
Exercise – although exercise may be a trigger, monitoring your exercising or working out at a lower-intensity level may still be safer.
Quit smoking.
Lose weight.
Drink alcohol in moderation.

Other migraine headache pain relief tips

Migraines can be quite severe and debilitating, so finding effective pain relief options can help you overcome the migraine easier. Here are some tips you can try to help your migraine headaches.

Promote a positive migraine-free environment – turn off the lights, apply cold/hot compresses and minimize noise.
Sleep well – stick to a regular sleep schedule, relax at the end of the day, minimize distractions which may keep you awake and check your medications as they may be keeping you awake at night.
Eat well – don’t skip meals, avoid food triggers and keep a food journal.
Exercise regularly.
Manage stress – manage you time, simplify your life, adjust your attitude and relax.
Keep a migraine diary to help you notice patterns and uncover possible triggers.

Cholesterol levels and migraine severity

Tips to avoid migraine triggers

Lower LDL cholesterol to reduce migraine severity

Other migraine headache pain relief tips

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