Whenever the word "migraine" or "endometriosis" is mentioned, most people think of two separate problems. But here comes the surprise: these two conditions often coexist, creating a reality that many women experience but few understand.
What are migraines and endometriosis?
Migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by severe headaches, often accompanied by sensitivity to light and noise, nausea and weakness. Meanwhile, endometriosis occurs when tissue that resembles the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, causing severe pain in the pelvic area and other symptoms such as painful periods.
Connection between two states
A commonality has been discovered between these two conditions. According to a 2021 survey , 43% of women with endometriosis also suffer from migraines. And although the connection between them is still not entirely clear, some theories include:
* Hormones: Hormonal disorders can affect both conditions.
* Inflammation: Both migraines and endometriosis are associated with high levels of inflammation in the body.
* Genetics : The possibility of inheritance of these conditions remains a strong theory.
* Sensitization of the central nervous system: This can worsen the pain in both cases.
What do women who suffer from both conditions say?
True stories show why it is difficult to separate the symptoms of one condition from another. Paula Dumas, a migraine activist, recounts that the headaches were so severe that they masked the symptoms of endometriosis to the point where the situation became unavoidable. After an emergency hysterectomy, she experienced the worst pain of her life: a migraine that turned her from an episodic to a chronic patient.
Why should this relationship be discussed?
Silence on these issues has often been dominant. Endometriosis was labeled for decades as the "career woman's disease," while migraines are often called an excuse to take time off work. As the famous writer Hilary Mantel said: "Women will continue to suffer until we realize the cost of ignoring these conditions."
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