Connection Between Hypothyroidism and Migraines: Investigating the Relationship
In a notable association, research indicates that hypothyroidism and migraines may have a bidirectional relationship, with each condition potentially increasing the risk of developing the other.
Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, is more common in women than men, and the risk of developing a thyroid condition increases for people who have recently given birth. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain, depression, and fatigue.
Migraine, a neurological condition, causes sensory disturbances and moderate to severe headaches, often affecting one side of the head. It is more common among women, with around 33% of women experiencing migraine at some point compared to 13% of men.
Research shows a 20% increased risk of hypothyroidism in people with new onset headaches, implying headaches might be early symptoms rather than just consequences of thyroid disease. On the other hand, having hypothyroidism may increase the risk of developing migraine and increase the risk of severe migraine episodes.
The exact mechanisms are not fully understood, but evidence suggests that hypothyroidism may cause trigger points in head and neck muscles, leading to nerve and blood vessel constriction that results in tension headaches and migraines. Hypothyroidism can also lower estrogen levels, which may exacerbate hot flashes and migraines, particularly in women.
Treating thyroid problems might help reduce the burden of migraines, indicating an important clinical connection between managing thyroid health and migraine relief. Headaches are a common side effect of levothyroxine, if the dosage is too high or low. However, many people with hypothyroidism and migraine report an improvement in migraine symptoms after starting levothyroxine treatment.
A doctor may use specific criteria to diagnose a headache linked with hypothyroidism, as outlined by the International Headache Society (IHS). If you have a history of migraine and any symptoms of, or family history of, hypothyroidism, it is essential to report this to a doctor. Anyone with hypothyroidism and severe or frequent migraine episodes, or any other type of headache, should contact a doctor.
Postpartum thyroiditis, a thyroid condition, affects almost of women and presents around after delivery. Continued research is ongoing to clarify these mechanisms in detail.
While neither migraine nor hypothyroidism are life-threatening, they can reduce the quality of life. Treatments are available for both conditions, and managing them effectively can lead to significant improvements in overall health and wellbeing.
- The study suggests that a person with hypothyroidism may have an increased risk of developing migraine and experiencing severe migraine episodes.
- Research has found a 20% increased risk of hypothyroidism in people with new onset headaches, suggesting that headaches might be early symptoms instead of just consequences of thyroid disease.
- Treating hypothyroidism might help reduce the burden of migraines, indicating a significant clinical connection between managing thyroid health and migraine relief.
- Migraine, a neurological condition, and hypothyroidism, a condition of the thyroid gland, are both medical conditions that can impact mental health and overall health-and-wellness, and can reduce the quality of life.
