Introduction Migraine is the greatest cause of disability under the age of 50. It impairs ability to function, work and maintain relationships. This survey aimed to assess the impact of migraine and its management.

Methods A questionnaire was sent to patients >18 years old who had taken at least one preventive treatment for migraine in the past. We report here the Australian results.

Results 68% were women, mean age 41 years. 53% were in paid employment whilst 13% received a disability allowance due to migraine. All patients (n=320) in the Australian survey had ≥ 4 migraine days each month. 90% had taken at least one preventive (274), with 80% (194) needing to change the preventive treatments previously. Common comorbidities were depression (41%), anxiety (40%), chronic pain (29%), sleep disorder (25%) and overweight (24%).

Diagnosis rate on initial GP visit was 57%, with 26% receiving a diagnosis in <1 month and 55% by 6 months.

There was greater retention of use (60%) and satisfaction (60%) with acute therapies, compared with use (43%) and satisfaction (53%) with preventives. Dissatisfaction with preventives included lack of efficacy (54%) and too many side effects (36%). Most (>60%) patients reported fear of the next attack, feeling hopeless and difficulty thinking clearly during attacks. Employers were often (69%) aware of the migraines, but only 24% offered any support. Migraine had negative impacts on relationships.

Conclusion The Migraine Voice Survey highlights the true burden of migraine in Australia and limitations of current management options.