Thyroid Disorders and Headaches: the Connection

Thyroid and headache?

I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism last year and followed my doctor's instructions to take medication.
However, about two months later, I suddenly experienced severe headaches (the pain throbbed with my heartbeat; the first episode lasted for several hours, and two days later, I had a second episode with the same type of pain, but this time it lasted for three days).
A neurological examination showed slower brain waves, and both MRA and MRI were normal.
I would like to ask: 1.
Is this type of headache considered a migraine or another type of headache? 2.
What is the relationship between this type of headache and hyperthyroidism? 3.
What does slower brain wave activity indicate?

rebecca, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/03/01

Dr. Lai Lunxiang reply Neurology

1.
Have you taken Inderal (which is commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism)? This medication may cause headaches.
Please discuss this with your primary physician; I personally believe this is not a migraine.

2.
Hyperthyroidism rarely causes headaches unless you have other symptoms, such as anxiety.

3.
The term "slower brain waves" can mean many things.
Please discuss the specifics of your brain wave activity with your internist, as it requires examination of the brain wave patterns to make a judgment.

Reply Date: 2004/03/01

More Info

Thyroid disorders, particularly hyperthyroidism, can have a complex relationship with headaches. Understanding this connection requires a detailed exploration of the symptoms, potential underlying mechanisms, and the implications of diagnostic findings such as EEG results.

1. Type of Headache: The description of your headaches—severe, pulsating pain that coincides with your heartbeat—suggests that it may not be a typical migraine. Migraines often present with unilateral pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light or sound, and they can be triggered by various factors including hormonal changes, stress, and certain foods. Given your symptoms, it may be more aligned with a tension-type headache or possibly a secondary headache due to another underlying condition. The fact that the pain is associated with your pulse could indicate a vascular component, which is less common in migraines. It’s essential to consult a neurologist for a thorough evaluation to determine the exact nature of your headaches.

2. Connection to Hyperthyroidism: Hyperthyroidism can lead to a variety of systemic symptoms, including anxiety, palpitations, and increased metabolic rate, which might indirectly contribute to headache development. While hyperthyroidism itself is not a direct cause of headaches, the stress and anxiety associated with the condition, along with potential fluctuations in blood pressure and heart rate, could exacerbate headache symptoms. Additionally, if your thyroid levels are not well-controlled, it could lead to increased symptoms that might trigger headaches. It’s crucial to ensure that your thyroid function is regularly monitored and managed effectively.

3. Significance of Slow EEG: A slow EEG can indicate various conditions, including metabolic disturbances, structural brain issues, or even the effects of medications. In your case, it’s important to discuss the specifics of your EEG results with your healthcare provider. A slow EEG may not be inherently alarming, but it can suggest that there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. It’s essential to correlate these findings with your clinical symptoms and history to determine their significance.

In summary, while there may not be a direct causative link between hyperthyroidism and your headaches, the interplay of symptoms and physiological changes associated with thyroid disorders can contribute to headache development. It is advisable to maintain regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your thyroid levels and discuss your headache symptoms in detail. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as stress management techniques, regular exercise, and adequate hydration can also help in managing headaches. If your headaches persist or worsen, further investigations may be warranted to rule out other potential causes.

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