MIGRAINE CONSULTATIONS - A TRIANGLE OF VIEWPOINTS

Several studies have examined patients' attitudes to a consultation fo r migraine and other headaches. However, a patient's assessment of the problem for which they seek treatment may differ from that of the ref erring primary physician which may, in turn, differ from the specialis t's. This study sat out to examine this triangle. The commonest reason for referral was failure of treatment response. This contrasted with the patient's different perception-an increase in the frequency of att acks which we saw as headaches additional to migraine, accounting for failed treatment. Similarly, our view of the patient wanting reassuran ce paralleled their request for further information. These findings co nfirmed the hypothesis that recognizing and understanding a patient's fears were important factors towards a favorable outcome of a consulta tion.