Headache Cases Rise at Riga Hospital, Migraine Most Common Diagnosis

Riga's Eastern Clinical University Hospital is seeing a growing number of patients treated for headaches, with migraines being the most frequent diagnosis. In 2025, the hospital's Headache Unit saw 1,340 outpatients, a rise from approximately 1,000 in 2022. Of these, 626 patients were treated for various forms of migraine, a condition that can severely affect daily life and work capabilities.

The unit also treats medication-overuse headaches, often resulting from frequent use of painkillers. The majority of patients are women experiencing chronic headaches, with pain occurring 15 or more days a month. Patient experiences vary widely, with some battling headaches for decades and others seeking help relatively soon after symptoms begin.

According to a 2025 study, 70.3% of Latvia's population reported experiencing headaches in the past year. Tension-type headaches affect about 40%, while migraine-like headaches impact around 20%. Secondary headaches, caused by specific treatable conditions, are less common.

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The patient's story about the nature, frequency, and accompanying symptoms of the pain allows for an accurate diagnosis.

Headache unit specialists stress the importance of managing pain at home when possible, noting that difficulties may indicate a need for more effective treatment or preventive therapy. Neurologist and algologist Līga Mekša explains that diagnosis relies heavily on detailed conversations between doctor and patient, rather than solely on additional tests, as most headaches are not linked to structural brain changes. "The patient's story about the nature, frequency, and accompanying symptoms of the pain allows for an accurate diagnosis," she stated.

Neurologist Linda Zvaune added that headaches can be independent diseases with their own mechanisms, not just symptoms. Prolonged, frequent pain or excessive use of painkillers can alter the body's pain response, making headaches harder to treat. Treatment focuses on acute care to alleviate pain during an attack and preventive measures to reduce frequency, duration, and intensity. Specialists also highlight the significance of regular meals, adequate hydration, physical activity, weight management, and quality sleep in managing headaches.

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Headaches can be a standalone disease with its own mechanism, not just a symptom. If the pain is prolonged and too frequent or painkillers are used excessively, the body changes its reaction to pain, and it becomes harder to treat.