Migraines don’t solely affect patient, takes toll on spouse, too

Migraines are exceptionally painful for the sufferer, but they can also take a toll on the patient’s spouse, too. A new study reports that the spouses of migraine sufferers are more likely to suffer from migraines as well. Lead author Dawn Buse said, “This study highlights the significant burden that migraine can have on a wide range of family activities, parenting responsibilities, spousal relationships, and family finances.” The researchers surveyed nearly 4,000 migraine sufferers and spouses.

Over two of every five migraine sufferers and 23 percent of spouses report that the migraine sufferer would be a better parent if they did not live with the condition. Nearly half of migraine sufferers have missed at least one family event as a result of migraines within the last month.
Nearly one-third of migraine sufferers and 21 percent of their spouses reported that migraines caused worry regarding long-term financial security, and this response was highest among those who suffered from chronic migraines.

Buse added, “Respondents with migraine and their partners noted a great deal of emotional distress related to how this condition affects their family member, including guilt, worry, and sadness. These findings underscore the challenges and negative impact that people with migraine and their family members’ experience.”

Migraines are not only debilitating to the sufferer, but can be devastating for the family unit as a whole. Further research should also include migraine sufferers’ children to see how migraines in the family affect their lives as well.

It’s reported that one in four American households has a person who suffers from migraines.

The findings were published in the Mayo Proceedings.

Also, read Bel Marra Health’s article on Treat chronic migraine headaches naturally at home.

Sources:
http://www.montefiore.org/body.cfm?id=1738&action=detail&ref=1296