The headaches that are supplemented by nausea can be triggered by various reasons that range from abnormalities in the brain or certain food sensitivities. It is recommended that the individual keeps a diary of episodes of headaches and when they feel sick so that the doctor can check a pattern to diagnose the condition. Migraine headaches are characterized by throbbing pain which causes nausea as well. Some individuals can end up with severe episodes of migraine headaches along with nausea at several points during their lifetime. There are a number of possible causes that you should be familiar with.
Abnormal brain activity
The abnormal patterns in the brain activity can instigate migraine headaches and nausea. The nerve pathways in the brain become disrupted and trigger the headaches and nausea. Take note that the nerves become swollen and the pressure produces pain along with nausea.
The triggers vary from one individual to another and should be monitored in order to determine the individual causes. There are some known causes of headaches which includes exposure to bright lights, alcohol consumption and allergies. Even hormonal changes, stress and certain odors can cause the painful headaches. Foods that are known to trigger migraines include baked goods, processed foods, nuts and dairy products. Food additives such as monosodium glutamate (MSG) and nitrates might also be considered as culprits for the pain.
Infections
Children often end up with headaches accompanied nausea as the result of a bacterial or viral infection. The abrupt onset of a severe headache and vomiting must be carefully assessed by a doctor in order to rule out possible meningitis or encephalitis.
When it comes to encephalitis, the brain becomes swollen and inflamed. Take note that this type of infection is often caused by a mosquito bite. As for meningitis, the fluid and tissue that surrounds the brain becomes infected. This condition often occurs after another health issue such as the flu or an ear infection. Aside from the headaches with nausea, other symptoms often manifest with encephalitis including personality changes, tremors and coma. For meningitis, other symptoms include vision changes, dizziness and sleepiness.
Aneurysm
An aneurysm develops when a blood vessel that surrounds the brain becomes dilated. The inflamed artery produces the headache with nausea and can continue to grow up to a balloon-size and eventually burst, resulting to coma and death.
The weakened walls around the brain usually trigger aneurysms. Weakening around the brain wall is considered congenital and continues to worsen as the individual ages. Other contributing factors include arteriosclerosis, smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol.
Depending on the exact cause for the headache that is accompanied by nausea, it is best to schedule an appointment with a doctor so that proper assessment can be carried out as well as appropriate treatment can be started.