Qualitative Exploration of Challenges and Management of Migraine among Pakistani Female University Students

Abstract

A migraine is a health condition of recurrent headaches with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can last up to a few hours to several days. Although it is a physiological condition, it is reported to cause psychological problems such as mood disorders and social issues. This study aimed to gain insight into the experiences associated with migraines among female university students. Challenges associated with migraines at emotional, cognitive, social, and physical levels were explored. Migraine management mechanisms were also explored. A qualitative study was conducted where in-depth interviews were taken from 10 participants. The participants were approached through snowball sampling with inclusion criteria of being a female university student diagnosed with migraine for at least three months. The thematic analysis was conducted to analyze participants’ verbatims. Emotional challenges associated with migraines included feelings of anxiety, depression, and helplessness. The cognitive challenges were distressing thoughts about the future, thoughts about death, and orientation and attention issues. The social challenges included social isolation and maintaining good relationships. The physical challenges reported were related to sleep, appetite, fatigue, and hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli. Further, most of the participants used avoidant/passive mechanisms for management and only a few participants used positive management mechanisms such as meditation. The study provides insight into the experiences of female university students living with migraine and highlights the need for integrated management approaches that address the physical, social, and psychological aspects of migraine.