Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 11, 2025

3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache
Published on: June 2, 2014
A Qualitative Study of Migraine Headache Experience in Patients with Patent Foramen Ovale Based on the Symptom
Meng Li1, Min Feng2, Mengtian Li3
1Nursing Department, The Third People's Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China.
Objective:
To explore the migraine experience of patients with patent foramen ovale (PFO) and migraine based on the Symptom Management Theory(SMT).
Methods:
A qualitative research approach was employed to conduct face-to-face, semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 16 patients diagnosed with PFO and migraine at the Department of Cardiology, The Third People's Hospital of Henan Province, from March to June 2025. The collected data were analyzed using the Colaizzi phenomenological method.
Results:
The migraine experience of patients with PFO was categorized into 3 main themes: 1) Symptom Perception: Variability in migraine severity and frequency (mean VAS 5.2 ± 1.8, indicating moderate symptom severity); Triggers and warning signs of migraine attacks; Impact of environmental and lifestyle factors on symptom onset. 2) Symptom Management: Persistent efforts to alleviate migraine symptoms (eg, medication, lifestyle adjustments); Emotional and psychological coping strategies; High expectations and hopes for the PFO closure procedure; Concerns and uncertainties about the effectiveness of the operation. 3) Symptom Outcomes: Physical and mental health challenges caused by chronic migraines; Social and occupational disruptions due to migraine symptoms; Seeking professional medical and psychological support; Long-term adaptation and resilience strategies.
Conclusion:
This study, grounded in the SMT, provides valuable insights into the migraine experiences of patients with PFO. The findings highlight the multifaceted nature of their symptom perception, management, and outcomes, emphasizing the profound physical, emotional, and social impact of chronic migraines on their lives. Patients' persistent efforts to manage symptoms, coupled with their high expectations for the PFO closure procedure, underscore the need for comprehensive, patient-centered care.The study also reveals the critical role of professional support in addressing both the physical and psychological dimensions of migraine management. Healthcare providers should prioritize personalized, multidisciplinary approaches to care, focusing on symptom relief, emotional well-being, and long-term adaptation strategies. Future research should expand the scope to include diverse geographical populations and explore long-term postoperative experiences to further enhance understanding and improve clinical interventions for this patient group.
Insights
Patients with patent foramen ovale (PFO) and migraine experience significant symptom variability and seek effective management strategies. Their journey highlights the need for comprehensive, patient-centered care addressing physical, emotional, and social impacts.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Qualitative Health Research
Background:
- Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a cardiac anomaly associated with various neurological conditions, including migraine.
- Understanding the lived experience of migraine in patients with PFO is crucial for developing targeted management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the migraine experience of patients with patent foramen ovale (PFO) based on the Symptom Management Theory (SMT).
Main Methods:
- Qualitative research utilizing face-to-face, semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 16 patients diagnosed with PFO and migraine.
- Data analysis employed the Colaizzi phenomenological method.
Main Results:
- Migraine experience themes included: Symptom Perception (variability in severity, triggers, environmental/lifestyle impacts), Symptom Management (medication, lifestyle adjustments, coping strategies, expectations/concerns about PFO closure), and Symptom Outcomes (physical/mental health challenges, social/occupational disruptions, need for support, adaptation).
- Patients reported moderate symptom severity (mean VAS 5.2 ± 1.8) and significant impacts on daily life.
Conclusions:
- The SMT provides a framework for understanding the multifaceted migraine experience in PFO patients.
- Findings underscore the profound physical, emotional, and social impact of chronic migraines, necessitating patient-centered, multidisciplinary care.
- Professional support is critical for managing both physical and psychological aspects; personalized approaches focusing on symptom relief, well-being, and adaptation are recommended.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management
Mitral Valve Prolapse III: Nursing Management
Mitral Stenosis IV: Nursing Management
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests

