The influence of pattern interference on performance in migraine and visual discomfort groups

Performance in migraine with and without visual aura, non-specific headache and headache-free control groups was measured using a visual search task. Data from groups with high and low visual discomfort were also gathered. No pattern, 2 c/deg, 15 c/deg and a grey field were used in different backgro und conditions. Presentation of patterned backgrounds slowed performance fo r all groups with the 2 c/deg pattern producing greatest interference. Perf ormance of headache groups did not differ from that of the control group in any condition. The high visual discomfort group responded significantly mo re slowly than other groups with the 2 c/deg background. It was concluded t hat the presence of visual discomfort, reported on an everyday basis was a better indicator of heightened sensory sensitivity than the occurrence of m igraine with or without aura.