Gender differences in treatment-seeking chronic headache sufferers

To identify gender differences within a group of patients seeking treatment for chronic headache. Previous studies of the general population have reported differences in headache symptoms, frequency, disability, and psychological distress, with women affected with more severe and disabling symptoms than men. This study evaluated these features in a population seeking treatment.

Two hundred fifty-eight consecutive patients with headache attending a university headache clinic were evaluated with questionnaires about headache symptoms and psychological distress. Comparisons between men and women were made for headache symptoms, severity, frequency, trigger factors, comorbid depression and anxiety, and response to treatment.

There were no gender differences in headache symptoms, frequency, severity, and duration. Headache triggers were gender-specific, with men more likely to endorse exercise and women more likely to endorse stress and exposure to odors. Psychological comorbidity was similar among men and women seeking treatment, with a mean Beck Depression Inventory score of 10 and a mean Spielberger trait anxiety score of 39 for both men and women. Disability was greater in men, with 46% reporting restrictions in activities more than 3 days per week because of headache compared with 29% of women. In addition, men were more likely to contribute headache control to external figures than women.

Patients seeking treatment for chronic headache do not have the same gender-specific differences that have been reported in general population surveys. Men who seek treatment for headache are more likely to have significant disability, and are equally likely to have symptoms of depression and anxiety as women who seek treatment. Clinical and research investigations of headache triggers need to be gender-specific.