Vascular Risk in Migraineurs: Interaction of Endothelial and Cortical Excitability Factors

Background Migraine is a common primary headache disorder occurring predominantly in a young, relatively healthy population. Results There is a growing literature on associations between migraine, especially migraine with aura, and ischemic stroke as well as other vascular events. Migraine as a risk factor for vascular disease and connections between migraine and endothelial, structural, and genetic risk are reviewed. Conclusion There may be an interaction between endothelial dysfunction and cortical spreading depression affecting risk. Patient education and treatment of modifiable risk factors may decrease future vascular events.