Are Migraines and Depression Related?

Did you know that migraines and depression go together? If not, maybe you should because migraine certainly has a way of creating sadness. Just think about it, when you have a migraine, don’t you usually just want to hide away in the dark until it subsides.

As a matter of fact, it is estimated that individuals who suffer from frequent migraines are more prone to becoming depressed. Conversely, people who seem to be depressed all the time suffer from more migraines.

Which came first?

So which came first, the migraine or depression? Well, no one really knows the answer to that question, or the real relationship between the two, but one thing is for sure, a deficiency in neurotransmitters in the brain are common with those who experience migraines, depression and yes even insomnia.

Many experts who have studied migraines and depression believe that there is similar neurobiology involved even though the causes may be distinct from each other. Some professionals in the past believed that migraine sufferers are often depressed because of the discomfort and isolation that accompanies them and the interruption to the quality of life. Today, however, more are leaning toward the assumption that biological factors instead of psychological ones are the cause.

Dangers to be aware of

While there are medications that are frequently prescribed for patients who suffer from frequent bouts with migraines and depression, users must be aware of dangers from interactions between the two types of drugs. One such danger was discovered in 2006 from the mixing of triptans, a migraine medication, with medications given for depression (SSRIs and SNRIs) which can lead to serotonin syndrome.

Serotonin syndrome is a condition that can occur when serotonin is too prevalent in the body. Symptoms include increased heart rate and the body temperature, hallucinations, changes in fats and blood pressure, as well as gastrointestinal upsets. Those patients who regularly take both migraine and depression medications should be monitored closely by their physicians.

Is there a cure for migraines?

Since migraines and depression are so closely related, and the medications that are given to treat them have possible negative side effects, it is important that those suffering from these conditions seek a final cure. Many feel that there is no hope for a long term cure, but since these two disorders have received most of their attention by way of treatment rather than cure, it is possible to find a long term solution for them both.

This is especially true when you consider that the predominant theory as to the cause of both migraines and depression is a chemical imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Since many other disorders are treatable with natural remedies that nourish the body while at the same time allowing it to heal, this might be the best course of action to take over a period of time.

There is also evidence that some types of allergies can cause the onset of symptoms in some patients. Reducing the amount of chemicals and infiltrates into a person’s environment may be the answer in some instances as well.

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