There have been reported links between migraine and asthma. Studies such as a recent one published in the British Journal of General Practice have demonstrated that patients with migraine disease tend to display symptoms of asthma, including nonseasonal wheezing and breathing difficulty. Those formally diagnosed with chronic migraines are more likely to experience adult onset of asthma.

While the exact cause of the connection between migraine and asthma is not known, the predominant theory is that it is muscular in nature. There is an airway smooth muscle (ASM) that, when narrowed, seems to lead to asthma flare-ups. Similarly, blood vessel walls contain smooth muscle, and there is a theory that the inflammation of that muscle leads to vasoconstriction, or narrowing of the blood vessels. Whether simultaneous muscle contraction occurs or one type of contraction influences the other is not clear. Further research is needed to explore the relationship and possible commonalities between migraine and asthma.

As with migraine, asthma is treated through both abortive and preventative medication. Quick-relief drugs are those that help restore breathing in the midst of an asthma attack; these medications include beta-2 agonists that act as bronchodilators. Preventative drugs are taken daily and help prevent the incidence of asthma attack; inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-2 agonists are common medications in this class.