A cross-sectional survey report on migraine symptoms & its management among Comilla University students
Year: 2024
Type: dissertation
Abstract: This survey-based study explores the patterns, triggers, symptoms and management strategies for migraines among students of Comilla University. A total of 374 participants, spanning various levels of education and academic departments, provided insights into their migraine experiences. The study collected data on the frequency, duration, triggers, and treatments of migraines to understand their impact on daily lives. A significant portion of the respondents (around 60%) reported experiencing migraines triggered by stress, including emotional factors like worry or anger. Other prevalent triggers included bright sunshine (reported by 40% of respondents), loud noise (35%), and changes in weather (15%). Approximately 45% of respondents reported their migraines localized behind the eyes (either right, left, or both), while around 30% experienced pain in both temples. The majority (about 55%) described their pain as a throbbing or pounding sensation, while 30% reported it as ache or pressure, and 15% described it as feeling like a tight band around the head. A large proportion (40%) experienced concentration difficulties during migraines, while 25% reported nausea or vomiting, and 10% experienced blurred vision or eyelid puffiness.About 30% of the respondents experienced 1-2 migraine episodes per week, while 50% had migraines 1-3 times per month. A minority (10%) reported no migraines in a typical month. For those taking medication, about 50% of respondents indicated their migraines lasted less than 2 hours. In contrast, untreated migraines could extend to 3-12 hours (30%), with some severe cases lasting several days. The intensity of migraines was rated on a scale of 1 to 10. Around 40% of respondents rated their pain between 5 to 7 (moderate), while 30% rated it as 8 or above (severe). Only 10% reported mild pain. Most respondents (around 70%) relied on over-the-counter (OTC) medications, primarily paracetamol (reported by 60%) and tolfenamic acid (25%). Very few respondents (less than 5%) reported receiving Botox treatments or using prescription drugs. Besides medication, many respondents employed non-drug strategies for migraine relief. Rest and quiet environments were the most common (used by 60% of participants), followed by massage (15%) and applying pressure to the headache area. In addition, avoiding triggers like stress, bright light, and loud noise were part of many students’ preventive strategies. Migraines significantly affected the daily lives of about 50% of the respondents, who reported moderate to severe impacts. Some students noted that migraine episodes disrupted their academic performance, sleep, and overall well-being. In conclusion, while most students use OTC medications and rest as their primary methods of managing migraines, the study reveals a need for better migraine management strategies to reduce the impact on quality of life. Awareness and more effective treatments, best suggestions could help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines experienced by the university students.
Author: Md. Shahariar Mia
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7077052673
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