A recent scientific reports explored the potential link between migraine and the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC).
Migraine, a neurological disorder causing painful headaches, is often associated with gastrointestinal symptoms and has been linked to irritable bowel syndrome and IBD, suggesting a connection with the gut-brain axis.
Utilizing data from the South Korean National Health Insurance Service, the study involved 10,131,193 individuals who underwent routine health screenings in 2009.
Migraine prevalence was higher among seniors, females, low-income individuals, and rural residents. Migraineurs had a 1.3-fold increased risk of developing IBD compared to the general population.
Sub-group analysis revealed a higher risk of both CD and UC development in migraine patients, particularly in males with UC.
The risk of CD increased significantly after five years among migraineurs, unaffected by sex, age, or metabolic comorbiditi
es.
Dietary factors, such as the Western diet, and pharmaceutical agents like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, were identified as potential contributors to both migraine and IBD.
This research underscores the need for IBD-related awareness in migraine patients, enabling early diagnosis and intervention.
The study also explores mechanisms like proinflammatory cytokines and gut microbial dysbiosis linking migraine with IBD, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of their association.
Source: Oman News Agency