Obesity and headache/migraine: the importance of weight reduction through lifestyle modifications

Biomed Res Int. 2014:2014:420858. doi: 10.1155/2014/420858. Epub 2014 Apr 3.

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine a possible relationship between prevalence, frequency, and severity of migraine and obesity. All pertinent data from the literature have been critically examined and reviewed in order to assess the possible relationship between obesity and migraine, in particular migraine frequency and disability in children, as well as in adult population studies. Prevalence, frequency, and severity of migraine appear to increase in relation to the body mass index, although this evidence is not supported by all the studies examined. Data from literature suggest that obesity can be linked with migraine prevalence, frequency, and disability both in pediatric and adult subjects. These data have important clinical implications and suggest that clinicians should have a special interest for weight reduction of obese children suffering from migraine, prescribing and supporting intensive lifestyle modifications (dietary, physical activities, and behavioral) for the patient and the entire family.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Causality
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Diet, Reducing / statistics & numerical data*
  • Exercise Therapy / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Migraine Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Migraine Disorders / prevention & control*
  • Motor Activity
  • Obesity / epidemiology*
  • Obesity / prevention & control*
  • Prevalence
  • PubMed / statistics & numerical data
  • Risk Factors
  • Risk Reduction Behavior*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Weight Loss
  • Weight Reduction Programs / statistics & numerical data
  • Young Adult