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In a recent revelation, experts have unveiled a potential explanation for why migraines afflict women three times more often than men, attributing the disparity to fluctuations in hormones.
Migraine, characterized by severe headaches often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound, affects approximately 15% of the global population. However, its prevalence is notably higher among women, a trend experts now link to hormonal variations.
Dr. Praveen Gupta, Principal Director of the Department of Neurology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, highlighted the role of hormonal shifts, particularly estrogen, in triggering migraines. “Migraine is a very common headache, and affects about 15% of the population. People with migraine have significant family history of migraine and is accompanied by worsening during menstrual periods. The ratio of females to male is three times to one,” explained Dr. Gupta.
Dr. Sumit Singh, Director of Neurology at Artemis Hospitals, further elucidated the connection between migraines and hormonal influences, noting that individuals using hormonal contraceptives or medications are at a heightened risk.
The Global Burden of Disease study 2019 identified migraine as the leading cause of disability among women aged 18-49 globally. Additionally, studies have revealed that migraines tend to be more frequent, disabling, and prolonged in women compared to men. Women are also more likely to experience associated anxiety and depression, seek medical intervention, and receive prescription drugs for migraine management.
Prof. Vinay Goyal, Chairman of Neurology at Medanta The Medicity, Gurugram, emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and tailored treatment approaches for migraines. “Diagnosis of migraine is always clinical and requires consultation with a good physician or neurologist. Sometimes imaging scans like MRI are required,” noted Prof. Goyal.
Echoing the need for innovative treatment modalities, Dr. J.B. Agadi, Senior Consultant Neurology at Apollo Hospital, Bangalore, highlighted the potential of emerging technologies such as Remote Electrical Neuromodulation (REN) for migraine management. “REN utilizes low-level electrical stimulation to activate pain-relieving pathways in the brain, providing a clinically proven, drug-free option for migraine management,” explained Dr. Agadi.
As understanding of migraines continues to evolve, experts underscore the importance of holistic approaches encompassing early detection, personalized interventions, and innovative therapies to alleviate the burden of migraines, particularly among women.
