Evaluating the Quality of Life and Sleep Habits in Children Aged 8-18 Years with Migraine

Abstract

Objective:Migraine is the most common primary headache among the paediatric population. The frequency of the condition causes a negative effect on children and parents, affecting the quality of life. Migraine and other primary headaches may result in sleep interruption, insomnia, hypersomnia and daytime sleeping. In this study, the quality of life and sleep disorders of children aged 8-18 years with migraine were assessed and compared with a healthy cohort.Materials and Methods:This study included 43 children or adolescents aged 8-18 years with acute migraine attacks, diagnosed according to the International Headache Society criteria. Parents completed ‘‘the children’s sleep habits questionnaire’’ and ‘‘pediatric quality of life inventory’’ tests. The control group included 48 children and adolescents without headache and a diagnosis of migraine. The two groups were compared to assess the negative effects of migraine on children.Results:The mean ages of the patient (15 boys and 28 girls) and control groups (25 boys and 23 girls) were 13.81±2.78 and 12.56±3.5 years, respectively. The physical health total score (p=0.000), emotional functioning score (p=0.019), school functioning score (p0.05).Conclusion:The results of this study were similar to those of previous studies, with the exception of decreased social functioning score of the pediatric quality of life inventory. These results substantiate the importance of administering appropriate treatment for pain control in children and adolescents. Specialists and parents should be aware of the potential social problems resulting from migraines.

Keywords

• paediatric migraine
• quality of life
• sleep disorders