How To Fix Abdominal Migraines in Children

Abdominal migraine (a form of migraine seen most commonly in children aged 5-9 years old) is, unfortunately, not a well-researched field.

However, with some key information and intelligent research, we can learn better how to understand, treat and live with this condition. Let’s take a look!

 

First, The Facts

Children are the key sufferers of this condition – experiencing severe centralized abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting (in most cases). After links were made to other family members having migraines, it was found that children with Abdominal Migraine were more likely to suffer from traditional migraines as a teenager / adult – both with AND without aura – as a direct result. The resulting pain can be severe enough to interfere with normal daily activities – and a visible physical toll (pale skin, dark circles, weakened appearance) can be seen.

 

Diagnosis

As with any form of migraine, there is unfortunately no definitive diagnostic test to completely confirm Abdominal Migraine. However, a diagnosis can be achieved by reviewing both family and patient medical history, evaluating the symptoms and performing an examination to rule out any other causes of the symptoms. Other conditions that should be ruled out before diagnosing Abdominal Migraine include: urogenital disorders, peptic ulcer, cholecystitis (gall bladder), duodenal obstruction, gastro-esophageal reflux, Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome. If there is any alteration in consciousness, seizure disorders should also be ruled out.

 

Understanding Your Doctor’s Thought Process

It’s thought, in the medical community, abdominal migraine carries a fairly “positive” prognosis. Most children DO eventually stop having attacks of abdominal pain – however, suffering children shouldn’t be fed an endless supply of NSAIDs, SSRIs, Triptans or other pharmaceutical medications. This does not “fix” the problem! It’s more likely to be these children are deficient in amino acids, fatty acids, neurotransmitters, hormones and other necessary vitamins.