Can Vomiting Ease Migraine Pain?

If you have migraine, you know the pain isn’t all in your head. It can also show up in your stomach.

It’s not entirely clear how migraine causes digestive discomfort, but researchers have a few theories. During a migraine attack, “The body releases more serotonin, which can make you nauseated,” says Medhat Mikhael, MD, a pain management specialist and medical director of the nonoperative program at the MemorialCare Orange Coast Spine Health Center in Fountain Valley, California. Any type of acute pain, including migraine, can also slow stomach emptying, which can lead to nausea and vomiting, he adds.

Vomiting, though, may be more than a symptom for some people with migraine. It actually may bring some relief.

The study authors suspect vomiting — as opposed to nausea in general — sends a strong response to specific brain nerves that then block pain signals in the body. They note, though, that more research is needed to determine whether other factors may also play a role.

Still, forcing yourself to throw up during a migraine attack is never a good idea, for a few key reasons.

• Dehydration
• Loss of electrolytes, such as potassium
• Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux (caused by stomach acid in the esophagus)
• Tooth enamel erosion
• Sensitive teeth or gums
• Cavities

Rather than waiting for a migraine to start, your best bet may be to take a preventive medication to help keep migraine attacks — as well as related symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting — at bay. If you start feeling nauseated, you can try a few tips:

• Take an anti-nausea medication. “There aren’t many side effects from anti-nausea medication, especially if you’re not taking it very often,” says Mikhail. Talk to your doctor about which one is best for you.
• Stay hydrated. Aim to drink plenty of fluids, and if you’re having trouble keeping them down, try taking small, frequent sips.
• Create a comfortable environment. “Try to be in a calming environment, away from noise and bright lights, which can aggravate your migraine,” he says.

It’s not uncommon for people to throw up during a migraine attack. But sometimes, vomiting warrants a larger conversation with your healthcare provider. Speak up if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms:

• Vomiting during many or most migraine attacks
• More frequent vomiting than usual
• An inability to keep migraine medication down
• Difficulty eating or drinking due to nausea or vomiting

• Vomiting or nausea is accompanied by a headache that you’ve never experienced before. A rare, serious type of migraine — called hemiplegic migraine — can cause symptoms similar to those of a stroke, which warrants urgent care.

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• You’re experiencing symptoms of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, or dizziness or lightheadedness when you stand up.
• The vomit contains blood, resembles coffee grounds, or is green.