Headaches and the quality of life in adolescents

Abstract

Headache is a common problem in the general population and, in particular, in children and adolescents and may negatively influence the quality of life of young. Thus, this study aimed to analyze, through a systematic review, the epidemiology of headache and association with the quality of life of adolescents. Initially, a search was conducted in the databases PubMed, Lilacs and Scielo using the keywords "epidemiology", "headache", "quality of life", "adolescents". Data were analyzed by two researchers independently. Were selected, after applying the inclusion criteria, 10 articles. Was observed that headache can cause a substantial impact on physical and mental health of adolescents, mainly among females. There is a shortage of longitudinal research and studies involving children with headache. In addition, the headache was related to emotional disturbances, depression, anxiety and difficulties of interaction related to family and school, which may cause a departure from the everyday activities and consequently decrease the quality of life of those suffering from headache.