Migraine and Fever: Understanding the Connection & Potential Risks

Migraines consist of crippling pain on one side of the head often accompanied by a host of other symptoms, but the sufferer usually does not have a fever. It is, however, possible to have both a migraine and a fever without any other medical complications, but this is highly unlikely. The appearance of a migraine and fever is usually a sign of a life-threatening condition such as stroke or meningitis.

Time Frame

• Migraines can last from a few hours up to two weeks, often with the pain rising and falling periodically. Fevers normally last only a couple of days.

Common Symptoms

• Fever symptoms--with or without migraine--include flushed skin; feeling alternately hot and cold, and body aches.

Identification

• The only way to be sure that a fever is related to a migraine and not something more serious is to get tested for meningitis or stroke. If they come up negative, then the fever was an uncommon symptom of a migraine.

Misconceptions

• It's not just children that can get meningitis. According to the Meningitis Research Foundation, it can happen to all age groups.

Warning

• If the migraine and fever are accompanied by problems speaking, moving, a stiff neck, or a spotted skin rash, call an ambulance immediately.