Nasal Allergies and Migraines

Filed in archive Hay Fever , Living with Allergies on August 30, 2006

If you have nasal allergies such as hay fever or dust mite allergies, have you also had episodes of migraine compounding your misery? IF so, well, it seems you're not alone. Apparently, histamine, that same compund that brings about your allergy symptoms are the same culprit that triggers migraines by causing inflammation and blood vessel dilation.

In a study of nearly 300 children and adults, researchers found that 34 percent of those with allergic rhinitis -- better known as hay fever -- also had symptoms that met the diagnostic criteria for migraine. That compared with only 4 percent of study participants without hay fever.

Antihistamines may alleviate your allergy symptoms, but may not provide relief from migraines.

Migraines can be managed with common painkillers, but other medications -- such as a class of drugs called triptans -- may be necessary. In addition, people with frequent migraines may need preventive drugs.

Topical steroid medications may also offer potential and researchers are looking into it.