Clues to Why Epileptic Seizures Can Halt Breathing

WEDNESDAY, Sept. 4, 2019 -- Higher levels of the brain chemical serotonin are linked to a lower risk of potentially deadly seizure-related breathing pauses in people with epilepsy, researchers say.

The findings suggest serotonin may help protect people with epilepsy from this threat, according to the authors of the study published in the Sept. 4 online issue of the journal Neurology.

Restless Legs Syndrome Might Raise Risk of Suicide, Self-Harm

FRIDAY, Aug. 23, 2019 -- People with restless legs syndrome (RLS) have nearly three times the risk of suicide and self-harm, which indicates that there may be a link between the physical condition and mental health.

In a new study, Penn State researchers analyzed data on more than 24,000 people with RLS and about 145,000 people without the neurological condition. None had a history of suicide attempts or self-harm.

How Much Coffee Is Too Much for Migraine Sufferers?

THURSDAY, Aug. 8, 2019 -- If you have migraines, one or two cups of coffee a day may be okay, but three or more could raise your risk of an attack, a new study concludes.

"Interestingly, despite some patients with episodic migraine thinking they need to avoid caffeine, we found that drinking one to two servings/day was not associated with higher risk of headache," said study principal investigator Dr. Suzanne Bertisch, of the Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston.

Epilepsy Drug Tied to Higher Risk of Suicidal Behavior in Young Users

THURSDAY, June 13, 2019 -- A new study supports the notion that a drug used to control epilepsy and other disorders could make some young people more prone to suicide.

The medicine, pregabalin (Lyrica), comes from a class of drugs called gabapentinoids. Besides their use against epilepsy, these drugs are also used to treat nerve pain and anxiety disorders, as well as symptoms of Parkinson's disease. But according to British researchers, pregabalin has also been linked to a heightened risk for suicidal behavior, overdoses, injuries and car crashes.

Money Worries Around Food May Spur Migraines

TUESDAY, June 25, 2019 -- It's a link that few might consider, but new research suggests young adults who worry about affording groceries may be more likely to suffer migraines.

The study, of nearly 15,000 Americans aged 24 to 32, found that migraines were common among those reporting "food insecurity." About one-quarter said they'd been diagnosed with the headaches, compared to just under 14% of other young adults.