Overview
Abdominal migraine is a neurological condition that primarily affects children but can occasionally occur in adults. Unlike traditional migraines that cause head pain, abdominal migraines lead to recurrent episodes of mid-abdominal pain. These episodes are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and a lack of appetite. The condition can significantly impact daily life but is typically self-limiting, with complete recovery between episodes.
Early recognition and intervention are important to reduce frequency and improve overall well-being.
What is an Abdominal Migraine?
An abdominal migraine is a form of migraine that presents as abdominal pain rather than a headache. Most commonly seen in children aged 5 to 9, it may continue into adolescence or adulthood. Abdominal migraines are believed to stem from irregular communication between the brain and gut—often considered an early-life indicator for developing classic migraines later on.
Symptoms
- Moderate to severe abdominal pain, usually around the belly button (periumbilical area)
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Pallor (pale appearance)
- Fatigue or lethargy
- Sensitivity to light or sound (in some cases)
- Mild headache (sometimes)
Episodes typically last from 1 to 72 hours, with normal health between attacks.
Causes
While the exact cause remains unclear, contributing factors may include:
- Abnormal brain signaling affecting the gastrointestinal (GI) system
- Family history of migraines
- Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin
- Identifiable triggers, such as:
- Emotional stress or anxiety
- Certain foods (e.g., chocolate, caffeine, processed meats)
- Sleep deprivation
- Motion sickness
- Hormonal fluctuations
Risk Factors
You’re at higher risk of developing abdominal migraine if you:
- Have a family history of migraines
- Are a child between ages 5–15
- Experience frequent motion sickness
- Are female (more common in girls)
- Have underlying anxiety or mood disorders
Complications
Though not life-threatening, untreated or mismanaged abdominal migraine can result in:
- School or work absences
- Emotional distress or anxiety
- Decreased quality of life
- Misdiagnosis as other digestive disorders
- Progression to classic migraine headaches later in life
Prevention
Preventing abdominal migraines involves both lifestyle and medical strategies:
- Follow a consistent sleep schedule
- Eat well-balanced meals at regular intervals
- Avoid trigger foods (e.g., aged cheese, chocolate, MSG)
- Stay hydrated
- Manage stress using mindfulness, breathing exercises, or therapy
- Identify and avoid specific individual triggers
Medical prevention may involve:
- Prophylactic medications: cyproheptadine, amitriptyline, or propranolol
- Acute treatments during attacks: anti-nausea drugs (ondansetron), NSAIDs, or acetaminophen
Treatment Options in Korea
In South Korea, abdominal migraine treatment is guided by pediatric neurologists and gastroenterologists, with a focus on comprehensive evaluation and long-term management. Available options include:
- Advanced diagnostics: Pediatric-focused neurological assessment and abdominal imaging
- Pharmacological therapy: Korean hospitals may prescribe preventive or acute medications such as cyproheptadine or domperidone, based on patient age and history
- Lifestyle counseling: Integrative programs in Korean children’s hospitals often include dietary guidance and stress management for parents and children
- Alternative therapies: Some centers incorporate acupuncture or herbal medicine (under medical supervision), especially in integrative medicine clinics
- Follow-up care: Ongoing monitoring with tailored treatment plans by child neurologists or pediatricians in major hospitals like Severance, Samsung Medical Center, or Asan Medical Center
