Classification and clinical features of headache patients: an outpatient clinic study from China
2011

Classification and clinical features of headache patients in China

Sample size: 1683 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Wang Yunfeng, Zhou Jiying, Fan Xiaoping, Li Xuelian, Ran Li, Tan Ge, Chen Lixue, Wang Kuiyun, Liu Bowen

Primary Institution: The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University

Hypothesis

This study aimed to analyze and classify the clinical features of headache in neurological outpatients.

Conclusion

The study found that primary headaches, particularly migraine and tension-type headache, are common among neurological outpatients in China.

Supporting Evidence

  • 19.5% of general neurology clinic outpatients reported headaches as their primary reason for visit.
  • 50.1% of headache patients were classified as having primary headaches.
  • Migraine patients reported more severe headache intensity and longer headache history than TTH patients.

Takeaway

Many people who visit the doctor for headaches have either migraines or tension-type headaches, and these types of headaches can feel very different.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was conducted with personal interviews and questionnaires to collect data from headache patients attending a neurology outpatient department.

Potential Biases

The data is based on a hospital-based survey, which may not represent the general population.

Limitations

The study cannot estimate the prevalence of primary headaches in the general population and may underestimate chronic migraine prevalence.

Participant Demographics

The majority of participants were female (69.1%), with a mean age of 46.17 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1007/s10194-011-0360-2

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication