6/7/2013 - Study: Migraine sufferers at increased risk of cardiovascular disease
While virtually everyone suffers from head pain every once in awhile - often brought on by stress and anxiety - a good portion of the nation experiences headaches in such a way that can dramatically reduce their quality of life.
According to the World Health Organization, migraines are one of the top 20 causes of disability in the world. Yet despite this, as noted by the Migraine Trust, it's one of the least publicly funded neurological illnesses as it relates to work productivity. It can even have an impact on businessowners who need to get workers compensation insurance, as some of their employees may have to take an extended sabbatical in order to deal with the pain brought on by migraines.
Health experts say that effectively managing migraine pain is crucial. So much so, that if it goes untreated, it increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
According to new research published in the American Academy of Neurology, scientists have found a link between people who experience migraines along with aura – (visual cues like flashing lights that sufferers often experience warning them of an episode) - and their predisposition to heart disease.
"After high blood pressure, migraine with aura was the second strongest single contributor to the risk of heart attacks and strokes," said Tobias Kurth lead author of the study.
Businessowners are encouraged to find out as much as they can about migraines so that they can effectively improve their company's production by contributing to health and well-being of their staff. The National Headache Foundation has a list of frequently asked questions that's worth reviewing.