Migraine Epidemic Sweeps Australian Women

New Survey Reveals Devastating Prevalence

Migraines are far more than just bad headaches, impacting daily life for millions. A groundbreaking survey highlights that one in three Australian women diagnosed with the neurological condition have experienced an attack recently.

Migraine Burden Worse Than Expected

A recent comprehensive analysis, a first for Australian women, found the prevalence of migraine significantly higher than previously estimated. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health partnered with Migraine and Headache Australia for the study, revealing that 33% of diagnosed women reported at least one migraine in the past three months. An additional 13% experienced undiagnosed migraine attacks.

“I did not realise that we would have up to one in three women experiencing migraine in Australia,” said Jean Hailes chief executive Sarah White. “And there’s a further one in 10 who have … had an undiagnosed migraine attack in the past three months.”

Symptoms reported include intense throbbing pain, heightened sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and cognitive impairment often referred to as “brain fog.” These debilitating symptoms underscore why migraine is recognized as a leading cause of disability globally for women aged 18-49.

Understanding Migraine’s Impact

Kate May, 30, shared her experience, emphasizing a shift in perspective. “I [am] embracing and accepting that as a normal part of my life, but not making it central to who I am,” she stated, focusing on what she *can* do. This resilient approach aids in managing the condition, which profoundly affects many women’s quality of life.

The survey’s findings, deemed “eye-opening” by neurologist Emma Foster, highlight the widespread nature of migraine. Nearly 80% of surveyed women reported their work being affected, and a similar percentage noted impacts on their physical health. Furthermore, half of the participants experienced diminished confidence and self-esteem due to their migraines.

Hormonal Fluctuations and Other Triggers

Experts attribute the higher prevalence in women largely to sex hormones, alongside genetic, environmental, and social factors. Migraine often begins around puberty and can fluctuate with menstrual cycles due to hormonal shifts. The period just before menopause, when hormone levels begin to drop, can also see changes in migraine patterns.

Dr. Foster noted that musculoskeletal tension, injuries, and environmental factors like fluorescent lights, loud noises, and strong smells can also trigger migraines in susceptible individuals.

“Migraine is far more than a bad headache, it’s a neurological disease and we are considering it at the moment … as a disorder of sensory processing. The attacks last between four to 72 hours. It’s a very distinct type of headache that’s accompanied by additional symptoms that can be … even more debilitating than the severe pain.”

—Emma Foster, Neurologist

There’s still a significant societal misunderstanding surrounding migraine, with some perceiving sufferers as overly dramatic. “I want to say that young women can get quite unwell and the data shows that this is something that is happening significantly to working age women,” May urged.

The economic toll of migraine in Australia is substantial, with a 2018 report estimating the annual cost at $35.7 billion. This new data underscores the urgent need for increased research funding and improved workplace support for women managing this condition. As discussions around women’s health issues like menstrual and menopause leave gain traction, this report emphasizes that migraine is another critical area requiring attention and accommodation.