Abdominal migraine

1. Abdominal Migraine

An abdominal migraine is a type of migraine that primarily affects the stomach, causing abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. It is most commonly seen in children, but can also occur in adults. Unlike typical migraines, which are characterized by headaches, abdominal migraines manifest as gastrointestinal symptoms.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of an abdominal migraine include:

• Moderate to severe abdominal pain, usually centered in the midline or around the umbilicus.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Pallor (paleness).
• Anorexia (loss of appetite).
• Headache may or may not be present.

These symptoms can last from 1 to 72 hours and are often accompanied by other migraine symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound.

Causes

The exact cause of abdominal migraines is not well understood, but they are believed to be related to changes in the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin. Genetic factors may also play a role, as there is often a family history of migraines.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing abdominal migraine can be challenging, as the symptoms overlap with other gastrointestinal disorders. A diagnosis is typically made based on the following criteria:

• Recurrent episodes of abdominal pain with a history of similar episodes.
• Absence of other gastrointestinal diseases.
• Family history of migraines.

A thorough medical history and physical examination are essential, and sometimes additional tests are conducted to rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for abdominal migraine often involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. Common approaches include:

• Avoiding known triggers, such as certain foods or stress.
• Maintaining a regular sleep schedule.
• Medications such as anti-nausea drugs, pain relievers, and in some cases, migraine-specific medications like triptans.
• Preventive medications may be prescribed for frequent episodes.

Prognosis

Many children with abdominal migraines outgrow the condition, although they may develop typical migraine headaches later in life. With appropriate management, the frequency and severity of episodes can often be reduced.

Also see

• Migraine
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Serotonin
• Pediatric neurology