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Survey Questions

I received a chance to qualify for a research study. I had to answer some questions. One of them was “how long does (my) migraine last UNTREATED?”

Needless to say, it was a short survey.

I feel kind of irritated about it. I don’t know what to make of that question.

I can’t proceed without answering it—but honestly, I take regular meds to treat my migraine, I have for years. I wouldn’t have an untreated migraine if you paid me! And I have no idea how long one would last without treatment. Until I got to the hospital…?

In truth, it’s a dumb question, IMO. I can’t imagine how the subsequent study will go if they are making these kinds of assumptions.


  1. Thank you for reaching out and sharing your thoughts with us. Was this a Migraine.com research study?
    Looking forward to hearing from you, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Advocate/Moderator

    1. I am wondering if this question may have to do with the "eligibility criteria" involved in the particular study you're applying to.


      Meaning: "Each study’s protocol has guidelines for who can or cannot participate in the study. These guidelines, called eligibility criteria, describe characteristics that must be shared by all participants. The criteria differ from study to study. They may include age, gender, medical history, and current health status. Eligibility criteria for treatment studies often require that patients have a particular type and stage of cancer.

      Enrolling participants with similar characteristics ensures that the results will be due to what is under study and not other factors. In this way, eligibility criteria help researchers achieve accurate and meaningful results. These criteria also make certain that people who could be made worse by participating in the study are not exposed to the risk."


      I wonder if they are looking for those who are suffering from migraine disease who have mostly been untreated or have, for example, chronic migraine attacks vs episodic migraine attacks. Or maybe they are looking to see if left untreated how long it takes to go from moderate to severe left untreated. I think this question is based on the basis of the study.


      Do you have more info on what the basis or hypothesis of the study involves? Rebecca (comm advc)

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