Workplace productivity can be considerably impaired as a result of migraine headache

Dr Andrew Dowson

Business cost

Migraine is a particularly debilitating form of headache and can be accompanied by either nausea and vomiting and light sensitivity.

Dr Andrew Dowson, from the King's College Hospital, in London, whose findings were presented at the World Congress of Neurology, in London, said migraine was a particular problem for business.

A recent US study has shown that treating staff migraine could save the typical employer more than $3,000 a year.

Dr Dowson said: "The adverse effect of headaches on business is a world-wide problem.

"Workplace productivity can be considerably impaired as a result of migraine headache.

"It is essential to treat the condition separately - to reduce attacks."

Other recent studies have found that migraines can be brought on by weather changes and that children who experience frequent headaches are more likely to develop health problems in adulthood, including psychiatric disorders.