Three gastrointestinal disorders are associated with migraines in children and adolescents, according to a study published in The Lancet.
The researchers identified 424 cases of children and adolescents who presented at an emergency department with migraine complaints. They also identified 648 patients who presented to an emergency department with minor trauma, who were enrolled as controls.
Here's what you need to know:
1. A total of 32 percent of children and adolescents in the migraine group were diagnosed with functional gastrointestinal disorders.
2. Only 18 percent of patients in the control group were diagnosed with these disorders.
3. The researchers found a significant association between migraines and three gastrointestinal disorders: functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome and abdominal migraine.
4. This study suggests that physicians should pay particular attention to patients with migraines who voice gastrointestinal complaints, since they may be at higher risk for these three disorders.
5. The researchers conclude by encouraging future studies to investigate whether antimigraine drugs may also benefit patients managing gastrointestinal disorders.