MyEpilepsyTeam

There is indeed a well-established connection between epilepsy and migraines — you are definitely not alone in experiencing both!

Research shows that having epilepsy can make someone roughly twice as likely to experience migraines compared to the general population. Between 8% and 24% of people with epilepsy also experience Show Full Answer

There is indeed a well-established connection between epilepsy and migraines — you are definitely not alone in experiencing both!

Research shows that having epilepsy can make someone roughly twice as likely to experience migraines compared to the general population. Between 8% and 24% of people with epilepsy also experience migraines. The two conditions share some striking similarities, which helps explain the link:

- Both can be triggered by the same things — stress, fatigue, alcohol, and menstruation
- Both can involve auras (visual, sensory, or speech disturbances)
- Brain activity during a seizure and a migraine attack can look similar on brain scans
- There may even be a genetic connection between the two conditions Migraines can also occur in relation to seizures specifically. They can happen:

- Before a seizure (pre-ictal headache)
- During a seizure (ictal headache)
- After a seizure (postictal headache)

As one MyEpilepsyTeam member shared, "Have had a few after this past seizure." It's worth speaking with a neurologist about managing both conditions together. There are medications available that can help prevent migraines and relieve symptoms, and a neurologist can tailor a plan that takes the epilepsy into account too.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Migraine and Epilepsy: What’s the Connection?