Migraine headaches have been linked to more serious health problems by a number of new studies, the Boston Globe reports. People who suffer from migraines, especially those involving visual disturbances, have higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. Doctors aren't sure why, but are increasingly treating migraines as warning signs rather than mere inconveniences.
"The bottom line is that migraines with aura produce complications," says one expert on headaches. "It's a risk factor for heart attacks and stroke in the same way as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol." (More migraines stories.)