Bachmann: Migraines won't impede White House goals

Republican Michele Bachmann moved swiftly Tuesday to address questions about her history of severe headaches, saying they wouldn't affect her ability to serve as president.

The Minnesota congresswoman and White House contender rejected suggestions that migraines would prevent her from waging a rigorous campaign or from running the country if she wins.

"Let me be abundantly clear — my ability to function effectively has never been impeded by migraines and will not affect my ability to serve as commander in chief," Bachmann said in a statement issued through her campaign.

She insisted that her symptoms are controlled with prescription medication and have not gotten in the way of a packed presidential campaign schedule or impaired her service in Congress.

Bachmann's statement followed a report published late Monday by The Daily Caller saying Bachmann's past migraines have led to hospitalizations and left her "incapacitated." The online publication granted anonymity to former aides who described specific instances where Bachmann was reportedly sidelined by severe headaches.

Campaign aides told reporters they have no plans to release a detailed medical history. Neither they nor Bachmann disputed accounts that she sought out urgent medical treatment during past migraine episodes.

Bachmann, a third-term congresswoman, has vaulted into the top ranks of GOP presidential candidates since declaring her candidacy last month.

At the same time, the tea party powerhouse has come under intense scrutiny over everything from her legislative record in Washington to controversial treatment offered by her husband's counseling clinic back home to her membership status with a conservative Lutheran church she formerly attended.