Impact of Migraine on the Family

The extensive literature on pain and the family contains little on migraine and the family. A national sample of migraine sufferers, interviewed by telephone, was questioned on how they perceived migraine affected their family life. Sixty percent believed that their families were significantly affected. Most stated that their families were understanding. but a considerable number reported that family members took a negative attitude. This was particularly so with younger children deprived of parental care during migraine attacks. Spousal relationships also suffered. Frequency and quality of sexual relationships were affected; and in a small number of cases divorce was the outcome. The significance of these findings in migraine management is discussed.