Epidemiologic and Clinical Characteristics of Migraine Headaches: A Descriptive Study in Isfahan, Iran



Zangeneh FA¹ ; Chitsaz A² ; Najafi MR² ; Norouzi R³ Show Affiliations
Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2012

Abstract

Background: Migraine is one of the most disabling disorders. Considering geographical differences in reported epidemiology and lack of data in our city, the aim of the present study was to describe the natural history of migraine headaches in Isfahan, Iran. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in the neurology clinic of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences (Isfahan, Iran) during 2011. A questionnaire containing validated questions was designed to obtain data about the demographic and headache characteristics. Among the patients presented with headache, subjects with confirmed diagnosis of migraine (based on the criteria of the International Headache Society) were selected to fill out the questionnaires. Findings: Among 764 patients with the complaint of headache, 84 (11%) subjects were confirmed to have migraine headaches. Of the 84 patients, 59.5% were women and 40.5% were men. Their mean age was 31.3 years old and 60.7% were married. The most common migraine triggers were stress (73.8%), sleep disturbances (61.9%), and fatigue (59.5%). The mean frequency of headaches was 8.2 attacks per month with an average duration of 14.2 hours per attack. Ibuprofen was the most common used analgesic. Conclusion: According to the results of our study, migraine is more prevalent in married women aging 25 to 34 years old. Clinical characteristics of migraine headaches in our patient were nearly compatible with the International Headache Society criteria.