Migraines and A Healthier Lifestyle

People with migraines are at twice the risk of having a stroke.
Protect yourself with exercise and a heart-healthy diet.

If you get migraines, your risk of having a stroke is double that of the general population. Although the absolute risk of anyone having a stroke is low, if you have migraines, you should make sure to address the general risk factors that are known to be associated with strokes.
The best way you can protect yourself is by first knowing what your blood pressure is and then keeping it in the normal range.
If you smoke, then quit—and if you don’t smoke, then don’t start. Secondhand smoke has also been associated with lots of health problems, so stay away from that as well.
Make sure you are walking 30 minutes a day most days of the week.
Maintain a healthy weight, and eat a low-sodium, whole foods–based, heart-healthy diet, like the Mediterranean diet.

Though it’s good advice for everyone, people who get migraines or have other risk factors, like diabetes, heart disease or a family history of stroke, may want to be extra vigilant.