ABSTRACT
To investigate the relevance of lacking or diminished visual input on the expression of migraine, we evaluated its prevalence and clinical features in a population of visually impaired subjects. Between September 1999 and April 2000, 203 visually impaired subjects with a headache inventory were surveyed. Those with headache were assessed according to IHS criteria for the presence of migraine. Migraineurs had their symptoms further detailed through an interview and a headache diary. Of the 104 subjects reporting headaches during the last 6 months, 29 had migraine (14.2%). The prevalence of migraine was not influenced by whether the visual impairment was complete or partial. Mean frequency of migraine attacks was 2.7/month. Most subjects (96%) reported severe and/or moderate attacks. Nausea, vomiting, aggravation by activity and phonophobia were reported by 62%, 37.9%, 86.2% and 96.6% of the subjects, respectively. Visual impairment does not seem to influence prevalence of migraine or its clinical features.
