Migraine Facts

What is a migraine headache?
A migraine is a headache that can cause significant pain for hours or even days. These throbbing or pulsating headaches often are accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme-sensitivity to light and sound. Some migraines are preceded or accompanied by "auras" - such as visual flashes of light, or tingling in an arm or leg.

What causes migraine headaches?
The exact cause of migraines is unknown. But in recent years, doctors have noted a possible link between migraines and a common heart defect, patent foramen ovale (PFO).

Studies have shown a higher prevalence of PFOs among people with severe migraines, leading some researchers to believe that migraines may be triggered by small clots or chemicals that reach the brain because of a PFO.¹

What is a patent foramen ovale (PFO)?
A PFO is a small flap-like opening between the upper chambers of the heart. The opening is normal in babies developing in the womb and it usually closes after birth. But this opening doesn't close in nearly a quarter of all people.

Researchers know a PFO allows blood to bypass the normal filtering system in the lungs. It is thought that this unfiltered blood can carry small blood clots or chemicals to the brain - possibly triggering a migraine. Clinical trials involving migraine patients who have PFOs are needed to confirm the link and help determine the best treatment for these patients.

What is the current standard medical treatment for migraines?
The standard-of-care medical treatment for migraines may be a variety of therapies as prescribed by the physician.

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¹Schwerzmann, M., Wiher S, Nedeltchev K., et al. "Percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale reduces the frequency of migraine attacks." Neurology 2004:62:1399-1401.