Migraine, considered the second cause of disability in the world, intensely affects those who suffer from it, impacting their personal, social and professional lives. In Spain, Over 50% of migraine sufferers experience severe or very severe disability. Despite its high prevalence, 40% of cases in Spain remain undiagnosed, which aggravates the conditions of patients and accelerates the chronicity of the disease.
The report highlights the prevalence of migraine among women, with 37.1% of cases compared to 23% of men, and highlights its presence among young people: 48% of patients aged between 18 and 34 and 36 .2% between 35 and 54 years.
As regards painful areas, the head is the most affected site (24.9%), although pain in generalized areas (21.1%) and in the back and extremities (19%) is also common.
About 62.5% of migraine and chronic pain patients rate their pain as “intense», while 26.7% describe it as «moderate». 8.2% even report feeling pain «unbearable». This continuous suffering also affects sleep: 80% of those affected complain of sleep disturbances associated with pain, which directly affect their quality of life.
«The data reflects the high prevalence of migraine among patients with chronic pain and its impact on daily life. This study will allow the design of measures aimed at raising awareness in society and improving the approach to the disease.», explains Ana Esquivias, representative of the Grünenthal Foundation.
Isabel Colomina, president of AEMICE, adds: «Migraines are disabling and go far beyond a simple headache. “A change in social perception is necessary to break the stigma of this disease.”
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Clara Martinez, Neurologist and Migraine Specialist
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Dr. Martinez, and thank you for joining us today. Migraine is an increasingly pressing health issue around the world, and particularly in Spain. Could you start by sharing some insights about the prevalence of migraines and the disability they cause?
Dr. Clara Martinez (DCM): Thank you for having me. Yes, migraine is indeed one of the leading causes of disability globally. In Spain, our statistics show that over 50% of migraine sufferers endure severe or very severe disability, which significantly impacts various aspects of their daily lives.
TNE: That sounds incredibly challenging for individuals who suffer from migraines. Can you elaborate on how this disability manifests in personal, social, and professional contexts?
DCM: Absolutely. For many, a migraine attack can lead to debilitating pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. Personally, this can mean they struggle to engage in routine activities, such as spending time with family or enjoying hobbies. Socially, it can lead to isolation, as friends and loved ones may not understand the debilitating nature of the condition. Professionally, missed workdays due to migraine can undermine career progress and lead to economic instability.
TNE: It’s startling to hear that over 40% of migraine cases in Spain remain undiagnosed. What do you think contributes to this high rate of undiagnosed cases?
DCM: There are several factors at play. First, many people may not recognize their symptoms as migraines or may attribute them to stress or other health issues. There’s also a lack of awareness among healthcare providers about how to diagnose and manage migraines properly. This can lead to patients not seeking help or being misdiagnosed.
TNE: That underscores a significant gap in both awareness and education. What steps can be taken to improve diagnosis and treatment for migraine sufferers?
DCM: Education is crucial. We need to raise awareness among both the public and healthcare professionals regarding migraine symptoms and their impact. Creating more public health campaigns, providing training for medical professionals, and increasing the availability of headache clinics would be beneficial. Additionally, it’s essential to encourage patients to advocate for themselves and seek a proper diagnosis.
TNE: What advancements in treatment or research are you currently excited about in the field of migraine management?
DCM: There’s been quite a bit of innovation lately. We have seen the development of new medications, particularly CGRP inhibitors, which have shown promise in preventing chronic migraines. Furthermore, ongoing research into the biological mechanisms behind migraines may lead to new therapeutic targets. It’s an exciting time for migraine research, with the potential for more personalized treatment options in the future.
TNE: That’s very encouraging to hear. Lastly, what advice would you offer to migraine sufferers in Spain who may feel frustrated about their condition?
DCM: I would tell them to not lose hope. Keep a symptom diary to help pinpoint triggers and seek help from a healthcare provider who understands migraines. It’s crucial to advocate for oneself and prioritize health. Community support can also be beneficial; connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide both comfort and practical tips on managing the condition.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Martinez, for sharing your expertise with us today. It’s clear that while migraines pose significant challenges, there is hope in the form of better understanding, awareness, and innovative treatment options.
DCM: Thank you for shining a light on this important issue! I hope our discussion can inspire more people to seek help and improve their quality of life.