Headache Followed By Vomiting: How To Find Relief

If you experience a headache followed by vomiting, it's important to identify the underlying cause to determine the most effective treatment. Below are several potential causes and their corresponding treatment options:

1. Hypertension

When headache and vomiting are linked to high blood pressure, prompt medical intervention is necessary. Doctors may prescribe antihypertensive medications such as nifedipine extended-release tablets, valsartan, or olmesartan to bring blood pressure under control. As blood pressure stabilizes, symptoms like headache and vomiting typically subside.

2. Migraine

Targeted Treatment for Migraine Symptoms

Migraines often cause severe headaches accompanied by nausea and vomiting. In such cases, triptans like rizatriptan, sumatriptan, or zolmitriptan can be highly effective in relieving pain. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin (e.g., Seractil) may also help manage symptoms. Anti-nausea medications like metoclopramide (Maxolon) can be used alongside painkillers to control vomiting.

3. Increased Intracranial Pressure

Managing Pressure Inside the Skull

If headache and vomiting result from elevated intracranial pressure—such as from a condition like cerebral venous sinus thrombosis—treatment usually involves intravenous administration of osmotic diuretics like 20% mannitol to reduce brain swelling. In addition, anticoagulant therapy may be introduced to address the underlying clotting issue and prevent further complications.

4. Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Emergency Care for Sudden, Severe Headaches

A sudden, intense headache followed by vomiting may indicate a subarachnoid hemorrhage, which is often caused by a ruptured brain aneurysm. Immediate treatment includes administering mannitol to lower intracranial pressure and undergoing diagnostic imaging such as digital subtraction angiography (DSA) or MRI to locate the source of bleeding and plan further intervention.