What Is Chronic Migraine?

What Makes a Migraine “Chronic”?

Chronic migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by 15 or more headache days per month, with at least 8 of those days involving migraine symptoms, and episodes lasting 4 hours or longer. This condition often goes undiagnosed or undertreated, yet significantly disrupts daily life and well-being.

Unlike episodic migraine, which occurs less frequently, chronic migraine symptoms are persistent and can severely impact quality of life. Many patients with episodic migraine may also require preventive therapy depending on their disease severity, level of disability, and overall impact on their day-to-day activities.

Migraine vs. Chronic Migraine

Chronic migraine is more than frequent headaches; it is defined as 15 or more headache days per month, each lasting 4 or more hours, with at least 8 days showing migraine features. Episodic migraine occurs less often but depending on severity and disability, patients may still need preventive treatments. Symptoms of chronic migraine include throbbing or pulsating head pain, nausea, sensitivity to light, sound, or smells, and sometimes fatigue or cognitive difficulties between attacks. Preventive therapies such as BOTOX® work proactively to reduce the number and intensity of headache days, offering long-term relief and improved quality of life. Resources like Migraine Canada and MigraineHelp.ca provide valuable patient education on preventive and acute treatments.

Managing Chronic Migraine Proactively

Preventive treatments differ from acute treatments, which are used during migraine attacks. Instead, preventive care is taken regularly on a schedule to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines before symptoms arise. BOTOX® is a Health Canada-approved preventive treatment specifically for chronic migraine in adults experiencing 15 or more headache days monthly. Clinical studies demonstrate BOTOX® can reduce headache days by an average of 8 to 9 per month, helping many patients regain control over their lives. Patients typically require at least three treatment cycles to fully evaluate efficacy, with treatments administered every 12 weeks. If migraines consume more than half your month, early consultation at Chinook Medical Centre can help you explore preventive options tailored to your needs.

For detailed medical information, see the BOTOX Therapeutic Product Monograph.

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