Why Do Migraines Make You Vomit?

In this article, we will explore why migraines can often cause vomiting. We will explain whether vomiting is a common symptom of migraines, what can trigger it and how your body responds to a migraine. As well as this, we will look at whether vomiting can actually help relieve the symptoms of migraines and will also provide you with practical advice you can follow to help you manage your migraines, as well as nausea/vomiting caused by a migraine.

Key Takeaways

Here are the 5 biggest takeaways from this article about vomiting due to a migraine:

• Migraines often cause nausea and vomiting, triggered by the intense headache and sensitivity to light and sound associated with a migraine.

• Research suggests that the gut-brain axis could contribute to vomiting during migraines.

• Delayed stomach emptying, or gastric stasis, is common during migraines, causing a buildup of undigested food, leading to nausea and vomiting.

• Brain activity that causes migraines may also affect areas responsible for nausea and vomiting, suggesting a neurological link between the symptoms.

• To manage vomiting during a migraine, resting in a dark, cool room and using pain relievers or prescription medications like sumatriptan can help. Antinausea medications, such as Domperidone, may also be effective in treating vomiting.

Is vomiting a common symptom of migraines?

Yes, vomiting can be a common symptom of migraines. The main symptom of a migraine is a throbbing headache, usually concentrated on one side of the head. According to the NHS, other symptoms of migraines can include nausea and vomiting. The pain and sensitivity to light attributed to a migraine can trigger feelings of nausea which, in some cases, can lead to vomiting.

Why do migraines make you vomit?

Migraines can often cause vomiting, often because of the discomfort and disruption to your body that they cause. Nausea and vomiting occur alongside dizziness due to disturbances in the brain and inner ear, according to the Migraine Trust. The exact cause of migraines is not known and is a point of constant research, and there is still no known cure or prevention method for the condition and its symptoms. What could cause you to vomit when you experience a migraine attack?

Gut-brain axis

The gut-brain axis may be one of the main causes of vomiting during a migraine (Glaser & Yang, 2024). Research highlighted by the Mayo Clinic indicates that there may be a connection between headaches and gastrointestinal health. People who suffer from migraines may be more prone to digestive issues such as reflux, diarrhoea and constipation, and conditions such as IBS and celiac have also been linked with migraines. Despite the need for more research, addressing issues with gastrointestinal health could help to treat or prevent migraines and vomiting.

Gastric stasis

Gastric stasis, also known as delayed stomach emptying, can significantly affect nausea and vomiting during a migraine. When you have a migraine your digestive system slows down which can lead to a buildup of undigested food in the stomach. This delay can cause nausea and increase the chances of vomiting (Glaser & Yang, 2024). This may also explain why you sometimes feel constipated when you have a migraine as the slowed digestive process can also extend to the intestines.

Brain activity

As previously mentioned, the exact reason people get migraines is not fully understood, however, one explanation could be due to brain activity triggering a headache, as well as other symptoms such as nausea and vomiting (Kuruvilla & Villines, 2021). It is thought that the parts of the brain responsible for generating migraines and intense head pain could also affect the areas of the brain that control nausea and vomiting. 

Can vomiting help reduce the symptoms of a migraine?

For some people, vomiting during a migraine attack may provide temporary relief from other symptoms. This may be due to the relief of pressure or discomfort in the stomach, or because vomiting could reduce the intensity of the pain felt, according to the Brain and Spine Foundation. It should be stressed not to force yourself to vomit during a migraine as this is not a proven method of migraine relief and can in some cases make symptoms worse. 

How can I manage vomiting during a migraine attack effectively?

If you are struggling with vomiting when you are having a migraine attack then there are a number of things you can do. To effectively treat the migraine itself you should lie down in a cool, dark room and use pain-relieving medications (Láinez, García-Casado & Gascón, 2013). Some people will find relief using over-the-counter treatments such as 4head Sticks or Kool N’ Soothe strips. Prescription migraine medications, such as sumatriptan and rizatriptan can also be effective. 

To specifically treat nausea and vomiting associated with migraines some people may find it effective to use antinausea medications such as Domperidone. If you find that your migraines are persistent then you should consult with a doctor for advice. 

Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Alexis Missick MBChB. MRCGP
GMC Reference no: 7151419
LinkedIn
Website

Sources

Migraine | NHS inform

Stages of a migraine attack - The Migraine Trust

Why Migraine Makes You Sick: How to Overcome Nausea and Vomiting - Migraine Again

Why does throwing up relieve migraines? Explanation and tips - Medical News Today

Buy Migraine Tablets Online | Migraine Treatment | UK Meds