IBS is sometimes described as the ‘migraine of the bowels’ – but can such bowel migraines cause migraine headaches too? Both conditions can have debilitating symptoms and negatively impact our quality of life, so understanding how your symptoms may be connected is an important step in devising a treatment plan. Today, on the blog, we will explore the link between IBS and migraine headaches. You will learn what a migraine is, how the gut and brain is linked to migraines through a special axis and our top migraine management tips.
What is a migraine?
A migraine is more than just a ‘bad headache’. A migraine is a neurological disorder, characterised by a throbbing or pulsating headache in one particular area. They typically last between 4-72 hours and sufferers may experience nausea and vomiting as well as particular sensitivity to light and/or sound. Migraines are a common condition – according to Headache Australia, there are almost two million migraine sufferers in Australia. Although a benign condition in the sense that experiencing migraines does not take years off your life, almost all people who suffer from migraines describe a reduction in their work capacity and social function.
What do migraines have to do with my gut problems?
If you have IBS, it is likely that you have experienced a migraine before. It is hypothesised that both conditions may stem from the same place – the central nervous system (CNS). Our brain and gut are connected through a special axis called the gut-brain axis. This axis effectively allows the gut and brain to ‘talk’ to each other and communicate messages. The brain typically regulates gut functions such as secretion of substances to help digest food and modification of sensory receptors. Likewise, a number of brain functions, including cognition, behaviour and pain perception are influenced by the gut.
In people with IBS and/or migraine, the CNS, comprised of the brain and spinal cord, heightens their sensitivity to pain (sensory receptors). This means that they may feel a higher degree of pain than most when triggered by light, sound, touch or smell. Internally, their intestinal organs have overly sensitive stretch sensors, which cause bloating and cramps in those with IBS. For example, most people will be completely unaffected by working in bright office light conditions all day, whereas those with IBS or migraine sufferers could drive home with a sore stomach and a nauseating headache from these conditions.
Beyond both conditions sharing the experience of heightened pain sensitivity, one mechanism that could explain the link is gut permeability. People with IBS often have increased gut permeability, also known as a ‘leaky’ gut. Over time, IBS may lead to leakage of harmful bacteria into the bloodstream. These bacteria can cause inflammation, triggering a migraine. Additionally, similar pathways are activated in response to both IBS symptoms and migraine. Our bodies respond by producing similar molecules or neurotransmitters, such as serotonin.
Can IBS trigger migraines?
The relationship between IBS and migraine can be described as a correlation – if you experience migraines, it appears that you are more likely to also have IBS. It is important to note that correlation does not equal causation, meaning one condition may not cause the other.
Tips for managing both a migraine and IBS flare up
Dealing with IBS symptoms is challenging on its own – so it is important to add an extra layer of self-care and compassion when managing a migraine at the same time. Below are some strategies for relieving migraines that are also IBS flare-up friendly:
Prioritise rest:
Sometimes, the only way to manage a migraine is to attempt to sleep it off. Poor sleep can be a possible trigger for migraine, so allowing yourself to get into a good sleep routine is an important migraine management strategy.
Create an IBS and migraine friendly environment:
Migraines can make sufferers particularly sensitive to any type of stimulation. When experiencing a migraine, attempt to rest in a low-light, quiet environment. Apply some heat if that relaxes you, for example use a wheat bag or a hot water bottle to deal with IBS-related cramps or nausea symptoms.
Peppermint oil:
Peppermint oil is a fantastic ‘double whammy’ oil for both IBS and migraine symptoms. Small, diluted amounts may be applied to your forehead to relieve pressure and can also be soothing on the stomach to manage bloating symptoms. Mintec Peppermint IBS Relief is FODMAP Friendly certified.
Inform your Dietitian about migraine symptoms:
When working with a Dietitian to unpack your IBS food triggers, make sure you discuss your migraine symptoms as well. You may be advised to keep a food diary to identify trigger foods, and this exercise could illuminate the finding that some IBS trigger foods also trigger migraine. It is important to work with a health professional when it comes to food triggers, as you want to limit unnecessarily cutting out foods from your diet wherever possible.
In Summary
There is a correlation between suffering from migraines and those with IBS. Both IBS and migraines stem from the central nervous system, made up of the brain and spinal cord. Through the gut-brain axis, these two important organs communicate messages to each other. Unfortunately, one such message communicated is heightened sensitivity to pain, including to light, sound, smell or even intestinal organs stretch receptor triggers. A ‘leaky’ gut in those with IBS can also cause harmful bacteria to escape, promoting inflammation and may trigger a migraine. Migraines can be managed through prioritising rest and ensuring your environment is conducive to managing both IBS and migraine symptoms. If you think you may be experiencing both migraines and IBS, it is important to speak to your Doctor and Dietitian to determine your food triggers and work out an effective dietary approach.
Written by Charlotte Barber (Student Nutritionist)
Reviewed by Kiarra Martindale (Accredited Practising Dietitian)
