People who suffer migraines may be twice as likely to suffer heart attacks, suggests new research from the US.

Scientists studied 6,102 people with migraine and 5,243 without and found that migraine sufferers were twice as likely to suffer a heart attack than those without the condition.

That risk was heightened among people who have migraine with aura – a headache that is accompanied by vision problems such as flashing lights or temporary blindness.

“While the overall risk of heart problems in people with migraine is small, these findings are consistent with other studies showing people with migraine are more likely to suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which are risk factors for heart disease,” said study author Dr Marcelo Bigal.

The British Heart Foundation were quick to comment on the findings by insisting that people who suffer migraines should not panic.

“The extra overall risk is very small,” said the charity’s senior cardiac nurse June Davidson.

“However, it is wise for migraine sufferers – just as it is for all of us – to avoid smoking, eat a healthy diet and be physically active, as this helps to protect our hearts.”

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