https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3012-3728
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Abstract
Background
Having chronic wounds and impaired wound healing are associated with psychological distress. The current study aims to evaluate migraine and headache complaints in young adults with self-reported impaired wound healing.
Methods
A survey was conducted among N=1935 young adults (83.6% women), 18–30 years old, living in the Netherlands. Wound healing status was verified, immune fitness was assessed using a single-item rating scale, and ID Migraine was completed. In addition, several questions were answered on past year’s headache experiences (including frequency, quantity, type, location, and severity).
Results
In both the control group (p < 0.001) and the IWH group (p = 0.002) immune fitness was significantly lower among those that reported headaches compared to those that reported no headaches. Individuals with self-reported impaired wound healing (IWH) scored significantly higher on the ID Migraine scale, and individuals of the IWH group scored significantly more often positive for migraine (ie, an ID Migraine score ≥2). They reported a younger age of onset of experiencing headaches, and significantly more often reported having a beating or pounding headache than the control group. Compared to the control group, the IWH group reported being significantly more limited in their daily activities compared to the control group.
Conclusion
Headaches and migraines are more frequently reported by individuals with self-reported impaired wound healing, and their reported immune fitness is significantly poorer compared to healthy controls. These headache and migraine complaints significantly limit them in their daily activities.
Data Sharing Statement
Data and questionnaire are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Institutional Review Board Statement
The study complied with the Declaration of Helsinki and ethics approval was obtained from the University of Groningen Psychology Ethics Committee (Approval code: 16072-O).
Informed Consent Statement
Informed consent was obtained from all subjects involved in the study.
Author Contributions
All authors made a significant contribution to the work reported, whether that is in the conception, study design, execution, acquisition of data, analysis and interpretation, or in all these areas; took part in drafting, revising, or critically reviewing the article; gave final approval of the version to be published; have agreed on the journal to which the article has been submitted; and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.
Disclosure
J.G. is a part-time employee of Nutricia Research and has received research grants from Nutricia Research Foundation, Top Institute Pharma, Top Institute Food and Nutrition, GSK, STW, NWO, Friesland Campina, CCC, Raak-Pro, and EU. Over the past 3 years, J.C.V. has acted as a consultant for Eisai, KNMP, Red Bull, Sen-Jam Pharmaceutical, and Toast! The other authors have no potential conflicts of interest to disclose.