What’s the connection between IBS and headaches?

Many people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) experience headaches. A 2020 study reported that headaches occur in 25% to 50% of people with IBS, which is much higher than the rate in people without IBS.

Research in this area often focuses on the link between IBS and migraine, which is often more severe than a headache and may cause other symptoms.

Experts are unsure exactly why the two conditions often co-occur, but it may involve disruptions in the gut-brain connection.

Serotonin is a chemical neurotransmitter that plays a role in pain perception, gastrointestinal function, mood, sleep, and more. It sends signals between the brain and the gut. Low serotonin levels in the brain may be related to migraine. IBS may occur due to low serotonin levels in the gut.

A class of antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), increase serotonin levels and can successfully treat IBS in some people.

IBS and migraine are both more common in females than in males. Since females have more estrogen, a sex hormone, than males, experts think that fluctuating estrogen levels may play a role in both conditions.

Although there is little research into the role of estrogen in migraine and IBS, doctors know that low estrogen levels around the time of menstruation can lead to a change in bowel habits and trigger IBS symptoms. Some females experience “menstrual migraine” around the time of menstruation, and experts believe they may be due to a drop in estrogen.

People who experience IBS, headaches, or both may wish to keep track of their symptoms. For females, this may include noting where they are in their menstrual cycle and other noticeable factors when they experience symptoms.

Tracking food and drink consumption may also help, as some foods can trigger headaches and IBS symptoms.

It can be difficult to determine why people experience IBS symptoms and headaches. A doctor may suggest looking for patterns in a person’s symptoms and avoiding any possible triggers. They may also suggest the following treatments:

• Antidepressant medications: Antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, may be beneficial in preventing migraine and treating IBS.
• Anti-nausea medications: Nausea and vomiting may occur with IBS and migraine, so antiemetic or anti-nausea medications, such as prochlorperazine, may help.

IBS and headaches can severely affect a person’s life. If symptoms persist after avoiding possible triggers, a person’s primary doctor may be able to refer them to a specialist for further investigation and treatment.