Abstract
In the Indian context, migraines are prevalent and are often associated with cognitive deficiencies, including issues with memory, attention, and executive functioning. This narrative review examines the significant cognitive effects of migraines. As a neuro-inflammatory disorder, migraines can greatly impact daily functioning, productivity, and overall quality of life, particularly among women and young adults. The manuscript presents key studies indicating that individuals with migraines experience impairments in executive function, processing speed, and visual-spatial memory. These impairments tend to correlate with the frequency and intensity of headaches. Neuroimaging studies have revealed cortical thinning and white matter abnormalities in patients suffering from chronic migraines, which may contribute to cognitive decline. Furthermore, the cognitive effects of migraines may be exacerbated by specific socioeconomic challenges in India, such as unequal access to healthcare and education, making diagnosis and treatment more challenging. The review also identifies various environmental and cultural triggers for migraines in India, including stress and dietary factors, which may differ from those in other regions. These findings underscore the importance of adapting existing research and treatment approaches—often based on studies conducted in other countries—to the unique context of India. The lack of large-scale, longitudinal studies and neuroimaging data specific to the Indian population highlights critical research gaps that need to be addressed to understand the long-term cognitive consequences of migraines in this demographic. The review advocates for comprehensive neuropsychological assessments and culturally sensitive treatments tailored to the Indian population. By addressing these gaps, we can develop customized healthcare interventions that offer hope for improving both the quality of life and cognitive health of migraine sufferers in India.