The Link Between Migraines and Panic Attacks

The Link Between Migraines and Panic Attacks Panic Disorder Related Conditions Print The Link Between Migraines and Panic Attacks By Katharina Star, PhD facebook linkedin Katharina Star, PhD, is an expert on anxiety and panic disorder. Dr. Star is a professional counselor, and she is trained in creative art therapies and mindfulness. Learn about our editorial policy Katharina Star, PhD Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on July 13, 2019 baona / Getty Images More in Panic Disorder Related Conditions Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Coping Headaches are often described as pain or discomfort in the head, face, and neck. The pain caused by headaches often varies for different people. Some people report feeling severe discomfort in the lower neck, others may complain about pain in the eyes, and some may feel the headache all throughout their head. Regardless of how the pain is experienced, frequent headaches can really interfere with your life. Depending on symptoms and severity, most headaches can be categorized into two main types: tension headaches or migraines. Tension Headache The most common type of headache Muscle tightening of the head, neck, and shoulders Pain felt throughout the head Migraine Headache Severe headache pain felt throughout the head Discomfort on one side of the head and pressure behind one or both eyes Sensitive to smells, noises, and light Nausea and vomiting Migraines may occur with an aura, which are symptoms or signs that are indicative of an impending migraine. For example, a person may have blurred vision, eyestrain, or visual disturbances shortly before a migraine headache occurs. Symptoms and Complications of a Migraine Attack Headaches and Panic Disorder Most people experience headaches from time to time. However, research has shown that people diagnosed with panic disorder and other anxiety disorders are more likely to experience frequent headaches than the general population. Many people with panic disorder will experience a headache right after having a panic attack. Those with panic disorder have been found to suffer from more severe headaches and migraines. Research has also indicated that there are certain risk factors that influence the occurrence of panic disorder and headaches. For instance, the incidences of headaches and migraines have been found to be even higher among female panic disorder suffers. Those who have a co-occurring diagnosis of agoraphobia and/or depression also experience more frequent headaches and migraines. How to Handle Headaches and Panic Disorder What You Can Do If you are experiencing a lot of headaches or migraines in addition to your panic disorder symptoms, discuss these issues with your doctor. Your doctor will be able to rule out any potentially serious medical conditions that may be contributing to your headaches. Treatment options for panic disorder and the co-occurring headaches may also be available. Some medications that are prescribed for panic disorder have been shown to effectively treat co-occurring headaches. On the other hand, your medication may actually be contributing to your headaches. Your doctor may need to determine if your medication for panic disorder is actually causing your headaches. Additionally, your doctor will create a treatment plan to help you manage both your headaches and panic disorder symptoms. Headaches and migraines are a common issue among panic disorder suffers. Fortunately, your doctor will be able to help you treat and manage both conditions. The 7 Best Online Anxiety Support Groups