Health.com: Frequent headaches and thyroid disease
A UC migraine expert comments on research that ties headache to hypothyroidism
Previous research has suggested a link between headaches and hypothyroidism, a common medical problem that can cause mood swings and weight gain, among other unpleasant symptoms. Now, one of the largest and longest studies to date provides the strongest evidence yet. University of Cincinnati researchers found that people with headache disorders were 21% more likely to be diagnosed with hypothyroidism when compared to those without.
The group included anyone who’d been diagnosed with migraines, cluster headaches, or tension headaches, or who reported taking headache-specific medicine.
Among migraine sufferers specifically, the increased risk jumped to 41%.
Dr. Vincent Martin, professor of medicine at UC, co-director of the Headache and Facial Pain Center at the UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute, a UC Health physician and lead on the study, provides comment.
Next Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is classified as a Research 1 institution by the Carnegie Commission and is ranked in the National Science Foundation's Top-35 public research universities. UC's graduate students and faculty investigate problems and innovate solutions with real-world impact. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
UC student leaders prioritize well-being, collaboration and spirit
April 28, 2026
Wilaini Alicea and Zohair Siddiqui were elected UC student body president and student body vice president in March. The two student leaders discuss their priorities for student government.
Emeriti professors make $1 million gift to UC’s College of Medicine
April 28, 2026
Henry A. Nasrallah’s life’s work has been focused on helping others. His vocation as a psychiatrist, researcher and educator is closely intertwined with his personal commitment to philanthropy, reflecting a deep dedication to improving psychiatric care, particularly by advancing research in neurobiology and treatments for schizophrenia and related disorders.
Hoxworth, FC Cincinnati celebrate life-saving donors with exclusive May giveaway
April 27, 2026
Hoxworth Blood Center, University of Cincinnati, is asking donors to score big for their community this May with an exclusive 40 oz. FC Cincinnati–themed tumbler available to donors at the seven neighborhood donor centers and select mobile drives while supplies last.