Effect of Bariatric Surgery on Migraine Headache: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Abstract
Background: Migraine is a common, disabling neurological disorder, and obesity has been associated with an increased frequency of migraine, chronicity, and severity. Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for substantial weight loss in morbidly obese patients. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis (per PRISMA 2020 guidelines; registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251175413)) to assess whether bariatric procedures influence migraine frequency and severity in patients with obesity. Method: We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Embase for studies on obese patients with a history of migraine who underwent bariatric surgery (including sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, or gastric banding) and reported pre- and postoperative migraine outcomes. Six studies (n=1899 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Data on migraine frequency, intensity, and disability before and after the surgery were extracted. Outcomes were pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis, and study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Results: Across the six included studies (n=1899), a variety of bariatric procedures were performed (sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y bypass, and gastric banding). The pooled results showed a consistent and significant reduction in migraine frequency following surgery. All pooled effect estimates favored the postoperative state, indicating fewer monthly headache days after weight loss surgery. Individual studies have also reported a reduction in…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 1,899 participants or records.
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