Evaluation of the burden of migraine on the partners lifestyle: a multicenter study

Objective: Migraine is a highly disabling disease that affects the patient's life, but its consequences on the patient's partner have been barely studied. The objective was to analyze these effects on romantic relationship, relationship with their children, friendship and work; as well as to evaluate caregiver burden and the presence of anxiety and/or depression.
Methods: Cross-sectional observational study. An online survey was filled by partners of migraine patients from five Spanish Headache Units. Questions about the four assessed areas and two scales to evaluate anxiety, depression and caregiver burden (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Zarit scale) were included. The presence of anxiety and depression was compared to the Spanish prevalence (6.7% in both cases).
Results: Out of 176 registered responses, 155 were accepted. The sample included 86.5% of women, with mean age 44.2 +- 10.4 years. Effects on partners were found on love relationship and items concerning children and friendships, with a minor impact at work. Partners showed a significant moderate burden according to the Zarit scale (p = 12/155 = 0.077 [0.041-0.131]; p < 0.001) and a higher anxiety rate than the 6.7% national prevalence (p = 23/155 = 0.148 [0.096-0.214]; p < 0.001), but similar depression rate.
Conclusion: We found an impact on the patient's partners on the studied areas. Migraine is a disease that implies caregiver burden in the patient's environment with possible effect on anxiety levels.