Did you know obesity is a risk factor for migraine? Join Dr. Karissa Thal, a primary care physician certified in advanced headache diagnosis and management, for an engaging and informative talk that offers clear, science-based answers. This session will explore the connection between obesity and migraine, the role of diet, exercise and medication in managing symptoms, and practical steps that may help improve quality of life. Whether you live with migraine or simply want to better understand the link between weight and health, this discussion will provide valuable insights you can use right away.

Dr. Karissa Thal is a physician at Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College, Pennsylvania. She has a dual appointment in the Family Medicine and Neurology Departments. She earned her Bachelor of Science from The Schreyer Honors College at The Pennsylvania State University. She earned her M.D. at The Penn State College of Medicine and completed her family medicine residency with Penn State Health, where she served as Chief Resident.

She completed a certificate course in Advanced Headache Diagnosis and Management at Thomas Jefferson University. She is a member of the American Headache Society and the Pennsylvania Medical Society, where she serves as a representative for the Women’s Physician Section. Dr. Thal was a delegate at the International Headache Academy in 2023 and served as a Headache on the Hill Advocate through the Alliance for Headache Disorders Advocacy in 2024.

OAC Health Talks are short educational videos diving deeper into specific health topics we know our community and the public care about. They are designed to empower individuals by educating and connecting them to trusted health experts who lean on the science to provide straightforward, practical answers and insight. Our Health Talks will provide an open space that supports conversation, engages viewers in specific and relevant health topics, and lets you connect with peers while watching.