Migraine With Aura and Migraine Without Aura: An Epidemiological Study

In a study of 1,000 people, researchers examined migraine types and characteristics. They focused on migraine with aura (MA) and migraine without aura (MO). The study used interviews, physical exams, and diagnostic criteria from the International Headache Society. The lifetime prevalence of MA was 5%, while MO was 8%. The male to female ratio for MA was 1:2. For MO, the ratio was 1:7, indicating that women are more affected. Interestingly, neither type showed a correlation with age. Premonitory symptoms were present in 16% of MA and 12% of MO patients. Stress and mental tension were common triggers, affecting 61% of MA and 90% of MO cases. In MA, visual disturbances were the most frequent aura symptoms. The pain from MA was less severe and shorter than from MO. Overall, MA and MO share similarities in the pain phase. Clinical relevance: This research highlights the importance of understanding migraine types and triggers for better patient management.