Headache with Nausea

Overview

Nausea with a headache is a hallmark of migraine, and in most people with recurrent attacks it points clearly to that diagnosis. However, headache with nausea has other causes too, and some need prompt assessment. This page helps you understand the combination; for the full migraine picture, see Migraine.

Common causes

• Migraine — the most common cause; nausea and vomiting often accompany the headache.
• Viral or gastrointestinal illness — headache and nausea together with fever or loose stools.
• Medication side effects — including overuse of painkillers.
• Raised pressure inside the head — nausea and vomiting that is worse in the morning or on lying flat, sometimes without the queasy feeling of ordinary nausea (a red flag).
• Severe high blood pressure — can cause headache with nausea.

When it is likely migraine

Recurrent moderate-to-severe headaches with nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and a return to normal between attacks, are characteristic of migraine. A clear pattern over months makes the diagnosis straightforward.

Warning features

• Vomiting without preceding nausea, especially on waking.
• Headache with nausea that is new, severe and sudden.
• Headache with nausea plus fever, stiff neck or confusion.
• A clear change from your usual pattern.

How we help

Dr. Nayak determines whether headache with nausea is migraine or another cause, excludes warning features, and builds a plan that includes anti-nausea treatment alongside migraine therapy when needed. Blood pressure and other contributors are checked. Consultations are available in-clinic in Bhubaneswar and over teleconsultation.

Related conditions and patient concerns

• Migraine
• Headache
• Severe Headache
• Morning Headache
• Fever & Infectious Diseases
• Hypertension & Cardiovascular Risk