Management of migraine by hospital emergency departments: a retrospective observational study carried out at the Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio

Abstract

Migraine is the second most common type of primary headache disorder in Europe, accounting for 2.8% of visits to emergency departments. Some studies have shown that emergency departments may approach the disorder in ways that may be insufficient or inadequate. A retrospective observational study was conducted of patients with migraine who were discharged from the adult emergency department of the Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio in 2020. Variables related to their healthcare were analysed. 73.9% were women, with a mean age of 38 years. They were not asked about the frequency of their migraines. The mean length of time patients spent in the emergency department before receiving initial medical care was 45 minutes (standard deviation: 41). Computed tomography scans were requested for 27.4% of the patients, and these were not pathological. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were the most commonly used treatment for the symptoms. Opioids were also used. Preventive treatments were prescribed in 6% of cases. Management of migraines by emergency departments is limited, and as such continuous and updated training is important. The use of triptans and occipital nerve blocks should be encouraged, and the use of opioids, among other drugs, should cease.