Arabic validation of Mig-SCog questionnaire in migraine patients

Background Evaluating the impact of migraine on cognition is vital in both clinical and research contexts. However, no validated Arabic-language tool currently exists for this purpose. This study aimed to translate and validate an Arabic adaptation of the Migraine Attacks–Subjective Cognitive Impairments ( Mig-SCog) scale to enable accurate, culturally appropriate assessment of subjective cognitive symptoms in Arabic-speaking individuals with migraine. Methods Patients with episodic and chronic migraine underwent structured, face-to-face interviews that included assessments of headache characteristics and severity using the Arabic versions of the Headache Impact Test (HIT-6) and the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Cognitive function was evaluated during headache-free periods using the Arabic versions of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the Mig-SCog questionnaire (Arabic version). Reliability of the Mig-SCog was assessed using Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Construct validity was examined through convergent correlations and exploratory factor analysis. Results A total of 90 patients (55 with episodic migraine and 35 with chronic migraine) were assessed using the Arabic Mig-SCog, with a median score of 13 (range: 12–15). The questionnaire demonstrated strong internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.82) and demonstrated good clarity and usability. Construct validity was supported by a moderate positive correlation with HIT-6 scores ( r = 0.590, p < . 001), a moderate negative correlation with MoCA scores ( r = –0.567, p < . 001), and a fair positive correlation with monthly migraine days ( r = 0.343, p = . 001). Conclusion The Arabic Mig-SCog demonstrated good internal consistency and acceptable construct validity in Arabic-speaking individuals with migraine. Its correlations with HIT-6, MoCA, and monthly migraine days support its utility as a screening tool for migraine-related cognitive complaints. Further research is recommended to evaluate its performance across different migraine phases and in larger, more diverse populations before widespread clinical implementation.