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Migraines and vomiting are two symptoms that often co-occur. This can leave those who experience this feeling perplexed and unsure of what’s to blame. While the two symptoms don’t always occur together, the relationship between the two can be a little more complex. Whether its pain, nausea, or an inability to keep food down, the mystery between migraines and vomiting is not just a coincidence.

A Migraine Recap

Migraines are a complex disorder, not just a bad headache. A migraine is usually characterized by headaches of varying severity, and many patients experience other symptoms before, during, or after a migraine attack. These symptoms may include vomiting, nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and an inability to concentrate. In some cases, migraines are so severe that they will disrupt an individual’s daily activities.

Why Do Migraines Cause Vomiting?

The exact reason why migraines and vomiting are interconnected is not entirely understood, but there are several possible explanations. Studies have found that the area of the brain responsible for vomiting is also the area of the brain most associated with migraines. This connection means that a change in blood flow to the affected area of the brain may cause nausea and vomiting during a migraine attack.

It’s not just a change in blood flow that’s to blame, though. When someone has a migraine, their body may also release certain chemicals and hormones that can lead to vomiting. Chemicals such as serotonin and nitric oxide, which are know to affect blood vessels, can also trigger vomiting.

How to Treat Migraines and Vomiting

If someone does experience migraines and vomiting at the same time, it’s very important to address both symptoms at the same time. Treating a migraine without addressing the nausea and vomiting may not be effective in alleviating a patient’s overall discomfort.

There are several medications that can help counteract nausea and vomiting. Over-the-counter-strength antinausea medications such as Pepto-Bismol or Alka-Seltzer can be a good starting point. There are also specific prescription medications that are designed to help treat both the symptoms of a migraine and the associated nausea and vomiting. These medications typically contain anesthetics, such as lidocaine or benzocaine, which can help to soothe the stomach.

Other ways to Reduce Migraine-Related Nausea and Vomiting

In addition to medications, there are also lifestyle changes that can help to reduce the onset of nausea and vomiting during migraines. Avoiding strong smells or bright lights, as well as taking regular breaks from computer or phone screens, can be especially helpful. Eating light, bland foods and drinking plenty of fluids, especially water and herbal teas, can also help to reduce the potential for nausea and vomiting during a migraine.

Exercising regularly, getting plenty of rest, and managing stress can also help to reduce the likelihood of a migraine attack. Some people also find relief from alternative treatments, such as acupuncture, acupressure, or biofeedback. Although these therapies are not a cure for migraines and vomiting, they may help patients to better manage the associated symptoms.

Conclusion

Migraines and vomiting often occur together, and the relationship between the two isn’t just a coincidence. Certain areas of the brain associated with migraines are also responsible for vomiting, and the release of certain chemicals and hormones during a migraine can also trigger both nausea and vomiting. Treating both symptoms can be quite challenging, but medications and lifestyle changes can help to provide relief. Incorporating light exercise, rest, stress management, and alternative treatments, such as acupuncture or biofeedback, can also be beneficial in managing migraines and vomiting.