How are migraine and depression linked?

Adel Olshansky, MD on behalf of West Hills Hospital & Medical Center

Neurology

There is a link between migraine and depression. In this video, Adel Olshansky, MD, a neurologist at West Hills Hospital, says that frequent and disabling headaches can make people become depressed.

Mark W. Green, MD on behalf of The Mount Sinai Health System

Neurology

People who suffer from migraines may also suffer from other illnesses like depression, social phobias, mania and anxiety. In this video, Mark Green, MD, a neurologist at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, explains these comorbidities.

Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine

Migraine is linked to depression, but one does not cause the other. According to the American Headache Society, 18% of people with migraine are also diagnosed with depression, compared with about 7% of the general population. It is possible that the pain suffered from migraines may trigger a depressive response. Some believe that depression and migraine may share a common neurophysiologic pathway in the brain. If the two exist together they must be treated.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Migraine Headaches

Migraine headaches are severe headaches that can last for hours or days. The pain can be so severe that the headache causes nausea and vomiting. Sometimes migraines follow a disturbance in your vision. When this happens they are called ocular migraines. The symptoms of this are flashes of light, seeing zigzagged patterns, blind spots and bright spots or stars. Migraines occur more frequently in women and are thought to be triggered by changing hormones, some foods, stress or bright lights. Talk to your doctor to see what you can do to control your migraine symptoms and what you can do to prevent them.

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