Living with Chronic Migraines
More than just a medical condition, chronic migraines redefine daily life. We explore the impact on work, relationships, and the moments of life that define normalcy. Approximately 75.6% of people who suffer from migraines have reported experiencing some level of anxiety or depression – 38% of them even report a minimum to moderate level (Amoozegar, 2022).
Furthermore, it not only affects the person with migraines but also the people around them. Our patients express the difficulty their families or partners experience during migraine attacks. It’s hard for them to understand the pain and disabling effects it can bring. Our patients also mention that it’s nearly impossible for them to plan activities because they don’t know if they’ll have a migraine; this makes their quality of life and professional life difficult.
Furthermore, a large population-based study (Schwedt, 2014) revealed that over a three-month period, 57% of individuals with chronic migraines missed at least five days of work or school, compared to 24% of those with episodic migraines. Additionally, 58% of individuals with chronic migraines and 18% with episodic migraines reported a reduction in productivity in household tasks for at least five days over the three months. Another study (Amoozegar, 2022) states that 15.7% are on sick leave for an average of 220 days. Furthermore, the estimated annual cost for someone suffering from chronic migraines can rise to $25,668.89 for medications, lost work, travel expenses, and appointment costs, etc.