A study conducted by researchers has illuminated the significant connection between poor sleep quality and the increased risk of migraine attacks, particularly highlighting the impact of sleep on morning migraines.
The research, which involved 477 participants ranging from ages 7 to 84, required participants to log daily entries regarding their mood, energy levels, sleep quality, and migraine occurrences using electronic diaries and mobile apps.
Key findings from the study, published in Neurology, reveal that individuals who perceived their sleep quality to be poor had a 22% higher chance of experiencing a migraine attack the following morning. However, this correlation did not extend to migraines occurring later in the day.
Additionally, participants who reported lower energy levels on the previous day were 16% more likely to have a morning migraine the next day.
Interestingly, the study found a discrepancy between the participants’ perceived sleep quality and the actual sleep data collected through actigraphy monitors, suggesting that subjective sleep quality might play a more crucial role in migraine onset than objective sleep measures.
Furthermore, the research did not establish any significant links between mood disorders such as depression or anxiety and the likelihood of migraine attacks.
The study’s emphasis on circadian rhythms and their role in headache patterns underscores the importance of aligning daily activities with individual circadian rhythms to potentially prevent migraines.
Experts not involved in the study, such as Dr. Mark Burish and Dr. Joey Gee, echo the findings, suggesting that melatonin, a circadian-related molecule, and maintaining good sleep hygiene could be key in preventing migraine attacks.
This research contributes to a deeper understanding of how sleep and energy patterns can be leveraged for predicting and preventing migraines, offering new pathways for individuals with a history of migraines to manage their condition more effectively.
Source: Medical News Today
