Migraine behavior in physical therapy students at the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador
Keywords:
HEADACHE, MIGRAINE, RISK FACTORS, PSYCHOLOGY.Abstract
Introduction: migraine is multifactorial, influenced by genetic, hormonal and environmental factors, with a biopsychosocial impact that is not yet fully understood.
Objective: to evaluate the behavior of migraine in students of the physiotherapy career.
Methods: a mixed, observational, and correlational study was conducted with physical therapy students from the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador. A sample of 104 students was selected using simple random probability sampling, meeting the selection criteria. Surveys and observations were used to obtain the information that led to the variables analyzed. Descriptive statistical methods were used, respecting medical ethics.
Results: the majority of students were female (58,5 %), who worked all week (43,2 %), and had no children (63,1 %). A high percentage (93,3 %) reported having previously suffered from headaches. Among the 97 students who experienced them, 51,6 % reported difficulties that did not prevent them from carrying out their daily activities. The most frequent clinical manifestation associated with headaches was photophobia (26,8 %), followed by misophonia, nausea, and vomiting (23,7 % each). Regarding psychosocial factors, 41,3 % presented normal stress levels, and 40,4 % normal anxiety levels.
Conclusions: migraine is a common disorder that affects physical and mental functioning. Its origin is multifactorial, involving genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Although there is evidence of the influence of biopsychosocial factors, limitations persist that hinder a complete understanding of their relationship with migraine.
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