Clinical and paraclinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of migraine headache using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) at Viet Tiep Friendship Hospital from 2023 to 2024
Abstract
Objectives: To describe the clinical and paraclinical characteristics of patients with migraine headache at Viet Tiep Friendship Hospital from 2023 to 2024, and to evaluate the treatment outcomes of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in this patient group. Subjects and Methods: A descriptive study was conducted on 45 patients diagnosed with migraine headache and hospitalized at Viet Tiep Friendship Hospital. Results: The study population consisted mainly of young adults, with no significant age difference between males and females. Female patients had a higher frequency and earlier onset of migraine attacks compared to males, with statistically significant differences (p<0.001). Common triggering factors included stress, weather changes, and sleep deprivation; the frontal area was the most frequently reported pain location. The pain was typically pulsatile, moderate to severe in intensity, accompanied by nausea and/or vomiting, and significantly affected daily life. Females had higher SF-MPQ pain scores than males, and nearly 75% of patients fell into severe impact levels (MIDAS grade III–IV). After three treatment sessions with rTMS, both pain intensity and characteristics showed marked improvement (p<0.01), and no abnormal findings were detected on EEG, indicating that the method is both safe and effective. Conclusion: Migraine often begins at a young age and can occur in any region of the head. Triggering factors may include sleep deprivation, stress, weather changes, or spontaneous onset. Common associated symptoms are nausea, vomiting, and pulsatile pain. A three-session rTMS protocol has the potential to reduce the severity and frequency of migraine attacks, while also improving physical function and patients' quality of life. rTMS is a non-invasive, safe, and effective treatment for migraine.