Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Vaccination on Migraine Symptoms during the COVID-19 Pandemic
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46531/sinapse/AO/230065/2024Keywords:
COVID-19, Vaccines COVID-19, Migraine DisordersAbstract
Introduction: Studies have shown the worsening of migraine associated with the COVID-19 infection and the pandemic more broadly. COVID-19 vaccination has also been associated with symptomatic headache, with high frequency among migraineurs. We aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 diagnosis and vaccine administration on migraine, during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.Methods: An online questionnaire was sent to migraine patients followed in a neurology outpatient clinic between March and November 2022. The survey inquired about migraine symptoms and treatment changes, as well as sleep changes, anxiety, and depressive symptoms during the pandemic, after a COVID-19 diagnosis and/or vaccination.
Results: Out of the 185 patients included, 108 (58.4%) reported a change in headache pattern (intensity, frequency, and/or pain quality) and 47% reported higher intensity and frequency. The pattern changes occurred before the COVID-19 diagnosis in 41%. Of all the participants with headache changes 72.2% needed to intensify medication (abortive or prophylaxis), regardless of infection status. High levels of insomnia, anxiety, and depressive symptoms were found among patients with worsening migraine, irrespective of COVID-19 diagnosis. After vaccination, 49 (27.1%) described a change in headache pattern, with a worsening pattern in 29 (16%). In half, this change occurred for up to 3 weeks.
Conclusion: Worsening of migraine was more likely associated with other factors related to the pandemic rather than COVID-19 diagnosis. COVID-19 vaccination might have acted as an additional but less relevant and temporary trigger for migraine worsening.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Lénia Silva, Adriana Lopes, Ana Pontes, Ana Gonçalves, Arlinda Chiteculo, Beatriz Soares, Inês Teixeira, Maria Gonçalves, Maria Alves, Maria Cardia, Mariana Monteiro, Raquel Eiras, Sara Costa, Inês Laranjinha, Carlos Andrade, Denis Gabriel
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