Did Primary Healthcare Patients in Riyadh Experience Their First Migraine Episodes After a Stressful Event, and What Triggers and Relievers Do They Commonly Report?

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate whether the first onset of migraine episodes among primary healthcare patients in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is preceded by a highly stressful event, as well as to identify common potential triggers and relievers reported by these patients.

BACKGROUND

Migraine is a prevalent and debilitating neurological disorder. The pathophysiology of migraine involves complex interactions between genetic, neurological, and environmental factors, including the trigeminovascular system and neuropeptides such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP).

METHODOLOGY

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 involving 271 patients. Data were collected using a Google Forms questionnaire, and analysis was performed using IBM Corp. Released 2023. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 29.0.2.0 Armonk, NY: IBM Corp, employing both descriptive and inferential statistics.

RESULTS

A total of 271 participants were included, with a predominance of females (82.3%). The majority (68.3%) reported experiencing a stressful event before their first migraine attack, particularly among the 18-25 age group. The most frequently reported triggers included sleep disturbances (70, 25.8%), emotional stress (53, 19.5%), and hormonal changes in women during the menstrual cycle (28, 10.3%). Relief strategies include falling asleep (101, 37.2%) and food intake (85, 31.3%). A significant association was found between age and the type of migraine experienced, as well as the frequency of attacks.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate a notable relationship between stressful events and the onset of migraines, emphasizing the need for targeted management strategies in primary healthcare settings. Understanding the common triggers and effective relief methods can help improve the quality of care for migraine patients in Saudi Arabia.