Migraines are often seen as simple headaches, but for many women they are a serious neurological condition that can affect daily life. Migraines can cause intense head pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and extreme tiredness. According to the World Health Organization, migraines are among the most common neurological disorders in the world and affect women almost three times more than men.
Doctors say hormones are one of the main reasons why migraines are more common in women. Changes in the hormone estrogen during different stages of life can trigger migraine attacks. These changes usually happen during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Many women experience migraines just before their menstrual cycle because estrogen levels drop suddenly at that time.
Experts estimate that around 60 percent of women with migraines experience attacks related to their monthly cycle. Pregnancy can also affect migraines differently for each woman. Some women feel better during pregnancy due to stable hormone levels, while others may continue to have migraine attacks, especially in the early months.
One type of migraine that doctors pay special attention to is called migraine with aura. This type of migraine happens when people experience warning symptoms before the headache begins. These symptoms can include flashing lights in vision, zigzag patterns, temporary blind spots, tingling in the face or hands, or difficulty speaking.
Studies have shown that migraine with aura may be linked to a higher risk of stroke. According to research published in the British Medical Journal, people who experience migraine with aura have about twice the risk of ischemic stroke compared to those who do not have migraines.
However, doctors say migraines alone rarely cause strokes. The risk usually increases when migraines are combined with other health problems such as high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, high cholesterol, or lack of physical activity.
Experts advise women to manage migraines through healthy lifestyle habits. Regular exercise, good sleep, stress control, and regular medical check-ups can help reduce both migraine attacks and long-term health risks.
