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Serious migraine: a study of some epidemiological aspects
J Pascual1, J M Polo, J Berciano
1Department of Medicine, National Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain.
Headache
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Severe migraine exacerbations affect 90 per 100,000 people annually, with higher incidence in younger females. This study highlights key epidemiological features of severe migraine bouts.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Severe headaches, particularly migraine exacerbations, contribute significantly to personal and economic morbidity.
- Epidemiological data on severe migraine bouts in unselected populations are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and epidemiological characteristics of severe migraine exacerbations in an unselected population.
- To provide insights into the natural history and public health implications of migraine.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of new walk-in neurological consultations to identify patients with severe migraine bouts.
- Calculation of incidence rates based on population demographics and patient data.
Main Results:
- Severe migraine bouts constituted 10.5% of new neurological consultations.
- The overall incidence was 90 per 100,000 person-years, with higher rates in females (143/100,000) than males (37/100,000).
- Peak incidence occurred in 15-19 year-old females and 10-14 year-old males; bouts typically lasted 2-9 months.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms the periodic nature of migraine exacerbations and suggests the influence of genetic and hormonal factors.
- Findings aid in public health planning for migraine management and understanding its natural history.