Migraine
Migraine Information
Migraine is a debilitating and recurrent neurological disorder, characterized by a throbbing headache that is usually made worse by movement and is often associated with nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhoea, photophobia and phonophobia. Attacks are sometimes preceded by constriction of the cranial arteries, usually with resultant prodromal sensory (especially ocular) symptoms and commence with the vasodilation that follows.
It is increasingly recognized as a disorder that seriously undermines patients' ability to work, study and have a normal family life. Its debilitating nature and its prevalence (9-16% of the Western population, typically between the ages of 25 and 55) result in a great personal and social burden, with consequent economic effects. For example, the annual cost of lost labour due to migraine in the USA is estimated to range from $5.6 to $17.2 billion.
Who suffers from migraine?
About one in ten people suffer from migraine, although the prevalence varies with age. Most migraine sufferers experience their first attacks during childhood or as teenagers, but migraines can sometimes begin during adult life. Studies have shown that, the age of onset is earlier in boys than in girls. Migraine can affect people at any age, but it is most common from 25 to 55 years of age, when work and family commitments are maximal.
Migraine prevalence also varies with gender. Migraine is two to three times more common in women than in men. The higher prevalence in women may be explained in part by hormonal factors. However, it is not just a 'women's disorder'; over one in every 20 men also suffer from migraine.
Migraine is common in all races. However, current evidence suggests that migraine prevalence is higher in Caucasians than in Africans or Asians.
Migraine sufferers may experience the burden of other associated illnesses on top of the burden of their migraines. They are at an increased risk from psychiatric illnesses, particularly depression and anxiety disorders. Migraine has also been associated with stroke, epilepsy and asthma.
