Rinsho Shinkeigaku (Clinical Neurology)

Original Article

The perception gap on migraine: a survey study of the migraine patients, family members, and physicians

Shiho Suzuki, M.D., Ph.D.1), Mamoru Shibata, M.D., Ph.D.2), Daisuke Danno, M.D., Ph.D.3), Yoshinori Tanizawa, Ph.D.4), Satoshi Osaga, Ph.D.4), Masayuki Hamakawa, Ph.D.5) and Mika Komori, M.D., Ph.D.4)

1) Department of Neurology, Dokkyo Medical University
2) Department of Neurology, Ichikawa General Hospital, Tokyo Dental College
3) Department of Neurology, Tominaga Hospital
4) Japan Drug Development and Medical Affairs, Eli Lilly Japan K.K.
5) Social Survey Research Information Co., Ltd.

Migraine is a disease that is difficult to be recognized by those around the patients, even though it causes significant hindrances. In this study, we conducted an exploratory comparison of the perceptions on migraine among patients, family members living with them, and physicians treating migraine patients. Patients and family members shared a common understanding on the pain of migraine, and hoped to spend more/better time together as a family. However, although family members felt compassion for the patients, lack of understanding by and patients'concern for the surroundings led to feelings of resignation and endurance on the side of patients. Regarding physicians'medical care, our results suggested the importance to understand the wishes and obstacles of each patient and to propose treatment accordingly. In order to reduce the burden of migraine, it is necessary to create an environment and raise awareness that allows people around the patients to understand and support the pain and hopes that each patient feels.
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(CLINICA NEUROL, 64: 465−473, 2024)
key words: migraine, patient-centered care, patient-family relations, physician-patient relations, self report

(Received: 27-Nov-23)