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NEW DELHI, April 20, 2025 – A recent study published in the scientific journal Neurology has identified a potential link between high diastolic blood pressure and a modestly increased likelihood of experiencing migraines among women. Diastolic blood pressure measures the pressure in your arteries when the heart rests between beats.
The research, which analyzed data from 7,266 male and female participants with a median age of 67, found that women with higher diastolic blood pressure readings had slightly greater odds of reporting migraines. Specifically, for each standard deviation increase in diastolic blood pressure, women faced a 16% higher chance of having experienced migraines. This association persisted even after researchers adjusted for other cardiovascular risk factors and varying education levels.
Participants in the study underwent physical examinations, provided blood samples, and answered detailed questionnaires about their history of headaches, including whether they had ever suffered from severe headaches that significantly impacted their daily activities, a characteristic often associated with migraines. Around 15% of the study group reported a history of such migraines.
Interestingly, the study did not find a similar connection between migraines and other cardiovascular risk factors like high systolic blood pressure (the pressure during heartbeats), high cholesterol, or obesity in the female participants. Furthermore, no significant associations between cardiovascular risk factors and migraines were observed in men.
The researchers noted some unexpected findings as well: current smoking was associated with 28% lower odds of migraines in women, and diabetes was linked to 26% lower odds.
The study authors suggest that the specific link to diastolic pressure might imply that migraines in women could be related to subtle functional changes in smaller blood vessels rather than issues with larger ones.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on findings from a research study published in Neurology. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individuals should consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making decisions about their treatment or lifestyle.
