Introduction: Headache is the most frequent neurological reason for consultation in our country.
Aim: To obtain descriptive data on the approach and satisfaction of the neurologist regarding the diagnosis, burden and management of headaches, and migraine in particular, together with the relationship with primary care physicians (PCP).
Subjects and methods: A total of 160 neurologists participated and answered electronically five questionnaires during one year. The results for patients were obtained in a standard clinic day and for the first 10 patients.
Results: The mean number of patients/day was 20.7. Thirty-six percent consulted due to headache, most under 50 and women. Half had migraine; in 70% daily activities were moderate-severely affected. Almost half had missed at least one work day due to migraine in the previous month. Neurologist considered that headache background of PCP should improve, mainly regarding preventive treatment. Complementary studies were asked in a rather low proportion of patients; CT (35%) being the most frequent. The majority indicated triptans, and in the mild phase of pain, and neuromodulators or beta-blockers for the preventive treatment.
Conclusions: Migraine is the first reason for consultation in the Neurology Services of our country and impacts negatively in the quality of life of our patients, usually women below 50. Its management should be improved with a better feedback with PCP and the use of the most efficacious treatments.