A new study has shed light on the connection between cluster headaches and migraine, and the internal clock that governs the body’s processes. The results of the research were published in the online edition of Neurology, the official journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
In the meta-analysis, several studies concerning cluster headache and migraine were included, to determine whether genes related to the circadian clock were more prominent in persons suffering from such headaches, and to observe the timing of the headaches throughout the day and year. The scientists also assessed studies linking cluster headache and migraine with hormones relevant to the circadian cycle, like melatonin and cortisol.
The findings point to the fact that both types of headaches are highly connected to the circadian system and, specifically, Cluster Headache, with 71% of people reflecting a circadian pattern of headache attacks. These peak at nighttime and the season with the highest frequency of the attack is spring and fall. Also various genes associated to the circadian clock were linked to cluster headaches, whereas people with cluster headaches had higher cortisol rates, and lower melatonin levels as compared to those who don’t have such headaches.
Concerning Migraine, in 50% of people, a circadian pattern of attacks was observed with peak time from late morning to early evening and a circadian low point in the night. The evidence also revealed that the 168 genes associated with migraine have a circadian pattern and for migraine the melatonin in urine was lower than those who are free of the headache.
These findings raise the possibility of utilizing treatments rooted in the circadian rhythm, like taking drugs at a precise time of the day, as well as treatments that cause changes in the circadian clock, including specific medications.
The American Academy of Neurology is an important organization dedicated to the advancement of neurology and the understanding of the brain and nervous system. The University of Texas Health Science Centre in Houston is an essential center for the research of emergence and preventative medical care, education and research at the local, regional and global level. Mark Joseph Burish, MD, PhD is an expert in neurology and a member of the American Academy of Neurology, who has investigated how cluster headaches and migraine have ever-lasting links to the circadian system.
