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More on migraine

Nasal allergies may trigger migraines

Many people with nasal allergies suffer from migraine headaches as well, new research indicates. This suggests that the compound that causes allergy misery - histamine - may also be involved in triggering migraines.

In a study of nearly 300 children and adults, researchers found that 34 per cent of those with allergic rhinitis - better known as hay fever - also had symptoms that met the diagnostic criteria for migraine. The findings might prompt doctors to have a "heightened awareness" of migraine symptoms among patients with nasal allergies, the researchers say in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

Symptoms of migraine

Migraines are marked by throbbing pain, typically concentrated on one side of the head and often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. But they can also come with facial pressure, nasal congestion and other signs often ascribed to sinus headache. For the new study, researchers led by Dr. Min Ku of Allergy & Asthma Care PA in Haddonfield, New Jersey, surveyed 294 adults and children with and without nasal allergies.

They found that patients with allergies were 14 times more likely to have symptoms consistent with migraine.

The researchers are currently studying whether topical steroid medications can treat or prevent migraine in people with nasal allergies. — Reuters

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