How common is vomiting in migraine?

During a migraine attack, changes in nervous-system activity can affect areas involved in nausea and vomiting. Movement, strong smells, bright light, and sound may make the symptoms harder to tolerate. Some people have nausea or vomiting before the head pain, while others notice it during the attack. Vomiting can make it difficult to keep medicines or fluids down. A recurring pattern that resembles previous attacks can support a migraine diagnosis, but a new or unusual pattern needs medical review.

Rest in a quiet, dim room and take small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink if you can keep them down. Follow your clinician's migraine plan early in the attack; ask about a non-oral option if vomiting prevents tablets from staying down. Avoid strong smells, alcohol, and activities that worsen movement-related nausea. Keep a record of triggers, timing, head pain, vomiting, sleep, and medicines so your clinician can refine the plan.

Seek emergency help for a sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, fainting, seizure, confusion, fever with a stiff neck, repeated vomiting with inability to keep fluids down, or a headache after a significant injury. Prompt review is also sensible when vomiting accompanies a first severe headache, a major change from usual attacks, or worsening symptoms during pregnancy. The Vomiting guide offers broader symptom information; the Migraine guide covers the condition.

Ask which treatment should be taken at the first sign of an attack, what to use when swallowing is difficult, and how often vomiting or headaches should trigger a review. Discuss possible triggers, preventive treatment, hydration, and symptoms that would make an attack different from your usual migraine.