Writing in the journal Neurology, Dr Paul Stang, from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA, and colleagues explain that their findings indicate that other types of headache with aura may also be associated with an increased risk of strokes.

The researchers note that while studies of younger women suggest an association between migraine and stroke, findings from studies in older people have been inconsistent.

"As migraine prevalence decreases with age, while stroke risk increases, it is important to know whether migraine confers risk in older populations," they say.

For their study, the investigators analysed data on 12,750 volunteers, aged 45 to 65 years, taking part in a heart disease risk study. Participants were asked about their lifetime history of headaches, strokes and transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs), also known as "mini strokes".

Analysis revealed that migraine with aura was "strongly associated" with strokes and TIAs. Other headaches with aura were also associated with stroke and TIA symptoms. However, migraine and headache without aura were not associated with strokes or TIAs.

The researchers conclude: "Migraines and other headaches, in particular those accompanied by aura, were associated with an increased occurrence of stroke symptoms…in this middle-aged and older study population."

They add: "Further research that focuses on the potential mechanisms underlying the complex relationship between headaches, particularly when accompanied by aura, and cerebrovascular outcomes is warranted."