Epidemiology of Migraines in Iraqi Females: Emphasis on Dietary Influence

Introduction Migraine is a neurological condition that frequently results in a severe headache. The headache comes in episodes and is occasionally accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light. Migraines can be caused by a variety of conditions and can last anywhere from three to four hours to several days, with females experiencing them three times more frequently than men. Studies have found some evidence that lifestyle variables, such as nutrition, may play an important role in the emergence of migraines. The purpose of this research is to determine the epidemiology of migraine among females with an emphasis on the relationship between headaches and the dietary habits of females who are enduring migraine attacks in Iraq. Methods This study is descriptive research employing a quantitative method, specifically a survey. The data collection process involved a three-section online survey disseminated to females through internet platforms, including WhatsApp, Viber, Facebook, and Instagram. In this research, 360 females from Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, aged 18 to 35, participated. The survey's primary questions centered on the characteristics of the female respondents, drawing from the International Headache Society (IHS) criteria for migraine diagnosis. Participants meeting the migraine diagnostic criteria were also asked a few questions about aura symptoms. The Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) questionnaire was incorporated, accompanied by inquiries about headache treatment, headache-related signs and symptoms, headache triggers, factors that relieve headaches, sleep routines, dietary consumption, and the impact of each factor on migraines. Results Of the 360 females who participated in the study, 159 (44.2%) experienced migraines, while 201 (55.8%) did not. The dietary habits of females who experienced migraines showed a statistically significant relationship to the duration of their headaches, specifically those lasting from 4 to 72 hours. This relationship was particularly evident in relation to nuts (p-value= 0.000), hot/spicy foods (p-value= 0.000), tomatoes (p-value= 0.005), bananas (p-value=0.01), aspartame (p-value=0.012), beverages containing caffeine (p-value=0.000), and citrusy fruits (p-value=0.008). These findings are based on p-values less than the commonly accepted alpha of 0.05. To maintain good health, it's essential to adhere to healthy eating habits and proper nutritional guidelines. Further research is necessary to identify additional dietary triggers for migraines. Enhancing data collection methods, such as using face-to-face interviews, could improve the quality of future research. Conclusion This study determined the prevalence of migraines among a sample of females in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, and identified various foods consumed in excess by females without considering their potential impact on migraines.