Migraine and cognitive dysfunction: a narrative review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• The relationship between migraine and cognitive function remains unclear despite extensive research.
• Migraine impacts individuals during their most productive years, affecting quality of life.
• Cognitive dysfunction is a significant cause of disability in migraine patients, second only to pain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of the relationship between migraine and cognitive function.
• To explore cognitive changes in migraine patients across different phases and subtypes.
• To identify gaps in research and suggest future directions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating migraine and cognition.
• Analysis of subjective patient reports and objective neuropsychological assessments.
• Consideration of neuroimaging studies to assess underlying neurological abnormalities.

Main Results:

• Subjective reports consistently indicate cognitive impairment in migraine patients.
• Objective neuropsychological assessments show variable results, with some studies reporting worse performance during ictal and postictal phases.
• Limited consensus exists regarding cognitive differences in migraine with aura versus without aura, and between chronic and episodic migraine.
• Neuroimaging studies for cognitive impairment in migraine are underutilized.

Conclusions:

• Growing evidence supports cognitive impairment in migraine patients.
• Further research is needed to clarify the nature and extent of cognitive deficits.
• Longitudinal studies controlling for confounders are crucial for future investigations.