Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of tension-type headache in Korea

J Korean Neurol Assoc > Volume 15(3); 1997 > Article

Journal of the Korean Neurological Association 1997;15(3): 615-623.

국내 긴장성 두통의 역학 및 임상특성 연구

김지수, 노재규, 안윤옥*

서울대학교 의과대학 신경과학교실, 예방의학교실*

Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of tension-type headache in Korea

JS Kim, M.D., JK Roh, M.D., YO Ahn, M.D.*

Department of Neurology, Preventive Medicine*, College of Medicine, Seoul National University

Abstract

This is the nationwide population-based epidemiologic study of tension-type headache in Korea. The diagnosis of tension-type headache was done by using the criteria of International Headache Society(1988). Sixteen point two percent fulfilled the criteria for tension type headache. Among men the overall prevalance of tension type headache was 17.8% with a maximum of 24.2% in the 50-59 age group. The prevalence rate among women was 14.7%. In women, 20-29 age group showed maximal prevalence rate of 20.2%. The male to female gender ratio was 1.2:1. Twenty three point six percent of patients had the family history of similar headache, which was more common in women(35.9%,) than in men(1l.9%). There was no difference in the severity of headache between both sexes. Pressing/tightening qualities were observed in 51.2% of patients. Fifty five point six percent of patients had bilateral headache. The headache was aggravated by routine activities in 32.1% of patients. The routine daily activities were affected by headache in 49,4% of patients. Fourty four point four percent of patients had the history of taking same drugs due to headache. Only 12.3% of patients ever consulted doctor for headache. Key Words : Tension-type headache, Epidemiology