Migraine Care and Underdiagnosis: A Silent Burden in the Gulf

Migraine, a condition often dismissed as “just a headache,” remains a prevalent but underdiagnosed and undertreated health issue in the Gulf region. Dr. Walid Alesefir, a consultant neurologist and headache specialist, sheds light on the severity of migraines, the higher prevalence among women, and the urgent need for awareness and proper care.Despite affecting over one billion people worldwide and up to one-third of the population in Arab countries, migraines are plagued by stigma and misconception. Regarded as the world’s second leading cause of disability by the World Health Organization, migraine’s debilitating impact on individuals and the economy is often overlooked.Migraine attacks, lasting hours to days, can disrupt daily activities and trigger symptoms like severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, and sensory sensitivity. The stressors of modern life, including rapid urbanization, contribute to its increasing prevalence. Shockingly, only 40% of migraine or tension-type headaches sufferers receive professional diagnosis, while others invalidate their symptoms due to misconceptions.Beyond physical pain, migraines take a toll on mental health, leading to feelings of isolation, depression, and helplessness. The economic burden is significant too, with direct costs of medical treatments, hospitalizations, and missed working days. Undiagnosed migraine leads to productivity loss and absenteeism, impacting both employers and society at large.Women are disproportionately affected by migraines, suffering three to four times more globally and twice as much in the Gulf. Underdiagnosis strains healthcare resources as patients seek relief and answers from multiple providers, leading to increased utilization and longer wait times.To address this issue, raising awareness through campaigns, improving access to healthcare services, and training healthcare professionals is crucial. Efforts to destigmatize migraines have been undertaken, but much more needs to be done. Enhancing public awareness and strengthening healthcare capabilities will improve detection rates and alleviate the burden on individuals and society.It is imperative for individuals, healthcare providers, policymakers, and society as a whole to unite in combating the underdiagnosis of migraines and improving the overall well-being of those affected by this incapacitating condition.