Circadian and seasonal variation of migraine attacks in children

Headache. 2006 Nov-Dec;46(10):1571-4. doi: 10.1111/j.1526-4610.2006.00613.x.

Abstract

Object: To investigate the rhythmicity of migraine episodes without aura in a pediatric population.

Methods: Time of occurrence of 2517 migraine attacks in 115 children was recorded, by means of a diary, both by hourly and monthly intervals.

Results: A significant circadian variation, characterized by a peak in the afternoon (P < .001) and one in the early morning (P= .002) was found. A seasonal peak was also observed between November and January, while a nadir was observed in July.

Conclusions: The clustering of attacks in the morning and midday and in autumn-winter, with a minimum frequency in July, suggests that school activities may represent an important cause of migraine.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Circadian Rhythm / physiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Migraine without Aura / epidemiology*
  • Migraine without Aura / physiopathology*
  • Seasons*