Risk factors for Headaches
Low Estrogen Levels
The problem of menopausal headache is substantial; it is probably under-estimated, under-treated and poorly understood. It certainly deserves further attention. [J Br Meno Soc 1998; 4: pp.56-61]
Chronic Fatigue / Fibromyalgia Syndrome
Severe headaches are experienced by 44-56% of fibromyalgia sufferers.
Headaches suggests the following may be present
Key
| Weak or unproven link |
| Strong or generally accepted link |
Glossary
Menopause
The cessation of menstruation (usually not official until 12 months have passed without periods), occurring at the average age of 52. As commonly used, the word denotes the time of a woman's life, usually between the ages of 45 and 54, when periods cease and any symptoms of low estrogen levels persist, including hot flashes, insomnia, anxiety, mood swings, loss of libido and vaginal dryness. When these early menopausal symptoms subside, a woman becomes postmenopausal.
Fibromyalgia
(FMS): Originally named fibrositis, it is a mysteriously debilitating syndrome that attacks women more often than men. It is not physically damaging to the body in any way, but is characterized by the constant presence of widespread pain that often moves about the body. Fibromyalgia can be so severe that it is often incapacitating.