8. Migraine among Medical Students A Cross-Sectional Study on Triggers, Symptoms, and Prev

MIGRAINE AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY ON TRIGGERS, SYMPTOMPS, AND PREVENTIVE STRATEGIEST

Aakash Kumar S. Tentishev Asian Medical Institute, Kant, Kyrgyzstan, student
Imran Ali, MBBS Amina Hospital, Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, assistant surgeon
Bakytbek Kulambaev S.Tentishev Asian Medical Institute, candidate of medical sciences, associate professor, head of the department

Abstract
Introduction. Migraine is a common primary headache disorder and a leading cause of reduced quality of life among young adults. Medical students are considered a high-risk group due to intensive academic workload, prolonged screen exposure, sleep disturbances, and chronic stress. However, data on migraine characteristics and associated triggers in this population remain limited in many regions. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 170 medical students using an anonymous structured questionnaire. Migraine-related disability was assessed using the Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) scale. The survey collected data on demographic characteristics, headache features, triggering factors, associated symptoms, and preventive strategies. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed.

Results. Migraine symptoms were most frequently reported among students aged 19–22 years. The most common triggering factors included prolonged screen time, academic stress, and sleep disturbances. Associated symptoms commonly involved photophobia, nausea, and phonophobia. A proportion of respondents reported regular use of analgesics, while non-pharmacological preventive measures, such as sleep regulation and stress management, were used inconsistently.

Discussion. The findings confirm that migraine among medical students is strongly associated with modifiable lifestyle and academic factors. The predominance of screen exposure and sleep deprivation as triggers is consistent with data from international studies. Insufficient use of preventive strategies indicates the need for targeted educational and preventive interventions within medical universities.

Conclusion. Migraine is a prevalent and clinically significant condition among medical students. Implementation of structured preventive programs focusing on stress reduction, sleep hygiene, and rational screen use may contribute to reducing migraine burden in this population.

Keywords: migraine, medical students, headache triggers, MIDAS, prevention,
cross-sectional study.