Are you getting migraines because youre gay

Sexual minorities are significantly more likely to experience migraines than heterosexuals, according to a new report suggesting minority stress and discrimination may be the culprit. Researchers interviewed more than 9, adults from the ages of 31 to 42 as part of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health.

Jason Nagata. Just over 85 percent of respondents identified as exclusively heterosexual, 10 percent were "mostly" heterosexual but somewhat attracted to the same sex and about 4 percent identified as gay, lesbian or bisexual. The survey did not encompass gender identity. Gay, lesbian and bisexual participants had 58 percent higher odds of a migraine than their strictly heterosexual counterparts.

Migraine headaches often produce an intense throbbing pain on one side of the head, though both sides can be affected. They can last hours or even days and be accompanied by nausea, vomiting and a sensitivity to light, sound or other sensory input. Migraines are the fifth-leading reason for visits to the emergency room, according to the Migraine Research Foundationand affect women more than men.

Nagata controlled for outside factors — including age, race, ethnicity, education and economic level — as well as habits like smoking and drinking. But he said more study was needed to see if genetics or other elements were at play. The immediate take-home for doctors, he explained, is to be more proactive in assessing their lesbian, gay and bisexual patients for migraines.

Nagata, who studies disparities in sexual orientation in public health and medicine, also stressed the importance of creating a welcoming environment. IE 11 is not supported.

Lesbians, gays, bisexuals more likely to get migraines, study finds

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