Quality of life in migraine patients: a qualitative study

The impact of migraine on quality of life has been traditionally evaluated by quantitative analysis, but diverse aspects remain insufficiently assessed, so a complementary qualitative approach may have advantages. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of migraine on the quality of life of migraineurs through the perception of patients and their relatives, and healthcare professionals. Qualitative methods were used, including six focus groups and nine personal interviews with 33 migraine patients under physician-directed treatment, five self-medicated patients, five relatives of migraine patients and seven healthcare professionals. Migraine has a negative affect on the quality of life, including physical, emotional and social aspects of daily life such as family, work and social relationships. Family environment and psychological well-being of patients were the aspects most affected according to patients and relatives. Health professionals emphasized work impairment and focused on pharmacological management and on the need for adequate information about migraine for non-medicated patients and patients' relatives. Qualitative methods, such as focus groups and interviews, are a valuable resource for assessing quality of life and well-being of migraine patients. These techniques open up new areas for further research.