gastroparesis

When we talk about migraine, we frequently end up talking about the stomach.  Whether a migraine causes abdominal pain, nausea, or other problems, it’s well known that there’s a link, although we’re still learning how that link works.

One problem that is believed to be common in migraine patients is something called gastric stasis, or gastroparesis (which can refer to more serious forms of gastric stasis).  Gastric stasis basically means that things stay in your stomach longer.  This can be a problem when you’re taking pills, because they don’t do much good when they’re sitting in your stomach.  This is one reason why researchers are looking for better ways to get the migraine drugs into your system (and why drug companies using such technologies are funding studies on gastric stasis!).

Though it’s believed that gastric stasis is a problem during a migraine attack, a new study adds a new wrinkle to the theory.  This study was published in Headache and reported in a news release at GlaxoSmithKline last Tuesday.  This small study focused on patients with migraine with aura.  Here’s the bottom line.  The study seems to indicate that indeed migraineurs have problems with gastric stasis – but not just during an attack.  In fact, the problem seems to be worse when they don’t have a migraine attack!

Why is this important?  1) It further demonstrates that migraine is a disease impacting all of life, it’s not just a bad headache  2) It calls for further research into links between migraine and the digestive system, and the neurological connection  3) As Dr Sheena Aurora of the Swedish Headache Center in Seattle, WA USA points out, it "affirms the importance of considering gastric stasis in treating these patients"  4) It’s another reason to consider alternatives to medicine you are now taking, especially if you have symptoms such as bloating, nausea and heartburn.  Why?  Because some drugs can actually cause gastric stasis, including narcotics, tricyclic antidepressants and calcium channel blockers (see WebMD on gastroparesis).

If I’m able I hope to further develop the topic about migraine and stomach issues.  It’s a big topic, and it may hold a lot of keys to relief.  And that’s why we’re here, right?  🙂

Gastroparesis is particularly a problem with diabetes patients.  Learn more about gastroparesis at the Mayo Clinic.