Obesity is a serious issue that can lead to many other diseases, but according to a recent study, obese people may be at higher risk for another problem – episodic migraines.

Migraine headaches involve intense pulsing or throbbing pain in one area of the head. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines affect more than ten percent of the population. There are two types of migraines, episodic and chronic. Episodic migraines occur less than 14 times per month and are more common than chronic migraines, which occur over 15 times per month.

A recent study conducted by Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine examined the differences among individuals based on their Body Mass Index (BMI) – a measure of body fat determined by height and weight. The study found that individuals with a high BMI were 81 percent more likely to have episodic migraines than those whose BMI was within a normal range.

While the connection between obesity and episodic migraines is still under debate, there is one theory that supports the link. The theory centers on inflammatory substances from certain fat tissues that are released into our system. The fat tissue adipose secretes different inflammatory proteins that some believe are associated to the development of migraines. Those who are obese have more adipose tissue; this could, at least in part, explain why they get more headaches.

So would losing weight mean migraines will decrease in frequency? Certainly, weight loss is strongly encouraged for people who are obese, but there is no indication that simply losing weight would result in fewer migraines. Instead, doctors of obese individuals who experience episodic migraines are being encouraged to promote healthy lifestyle choices such as diet and exercise for their patients. Those who eliminate processed foods, high-calorie foods and alcohol — all of which can be migraine triggers– could end up losing weight and experience fewer headaches.

If you are obese and experience migraines, speak to your doctor about lifestyle choices that can possible help. To make an appointment at Jamaica Hospital’s Ambulatory Care Center, please call718-206-7100.