Abdominal Migraines

Known as a migraine variant, abdominal migraines are characterized by abdominal pain and cramping, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting and pallor. Less common symptoms include headache, irritability, diarrhea and sensitivity to light. The syndrome is more prevalent in children, occurring most frequently in children ages 5 to 9.

How are abdominal migraines diagnosed?

Due to the young age of most sufferers, making a correct diagnosis can be difficult. In the vast majority of cases, there is a strong connection between abdominal migraines and a family history of migraines. In addition, the symptoms will be recurring, usually lasting from one to 72 hours, with symptom-free periods in between that can last for days or weeks. A physical exam, blood or urine tests and imaging tests are also generally given to rule out other causes.

What causes abdominal migraines?

Abdominal migraines are considered a genetic neurological disease. Attacks are initiated by migraine triggers, which can include certain types of food, stress or anxiety, weather changes, sleep problems and fluorescent lights. It is believed that these triggers may cause changes in the histamine and serotonin levels in the body.

How are abdominal migraines treated?

If the abdominal attacks are infrequent, medications typically used for migraine headaches may be prescribed. Among these medications are NSAIDs, anti-nausea formulas, Midrin and triptans. The beta blocker Inderal has been shown to be effective in improving the flow of blood to the brain, which may alleviate a symptomatic headache. Some sufferers respond favorably to a change in diet or other prophylactic measures, such as the use of the nonanalgesics pizotifen, propanolol and cyproheptadine.

Although fairly common, abdominal migraines have not yet been comprehensively investigated. Much research still remains to be done to determine the causes of the disorder and discover effective treatments.