Migraines, often stemming from an overly sensitive nervous system, can trigger intense headaches accompanied by debilitating nausea and vomiting. This occurs when the trigeminal nerve, the largest cranial nerve responsible for transmitting facial sensations, becomes activated, leading to localized blood vessel dilation and inflammation. The nerve's impulses can also affect the medulla, the brain's vomiting reflex center, explaining why many migraine sufferers experience stomach upset. Fortunately, several strategies can help manage these uncomfortable symptoms.

Eating bland, easily digestible foods such as crackers, water, broth, soup, or porridge can help reduce migraine-related nausea.

Ginger can also alleviate nausea due to its active compounds: gingerol in fresh ginger and shogaol in dried ginger. These compounds soothe the nervous system, inhibit certain neurotransmitters, promote digestion, and help empty the stomach, thereby reducing feelings of nausea. Individuals can consume a slice of fresh ginger, suck on ginger candy, or drink warm ginger water to calm headaches and prevent nausea.

Ginger reduces nausea thanks to active gingerol compounds. Photo: Bui Thuy

Ginger reduces nausea thanks to active gingerol compounds. Photo: Bui Thuy

Aromatherapy, involving the inhalation of concentrated essential oils, can reduce headache-related nausea by promoting mental relaxation and calming the mind. Certain active compounds in essential oils directly affect the nervous system, relaxing muscles, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving blood circulation, which helps alleviate headaches. Patients can use an essential oil diffuser, a steamer, place a few drops of oil on a tissue to inhale, or apply oil to their pillow while lying down.

Identifying and avoiding migraine triggers is crucial for symptom control and preventing sudden flare-ups. Those who experience frequent headaches should keep a headache diary, noting potential triggers or recently consumed foods. This practice helps pinpoint and eliminate individual triggers.

Reducing stress through exercise or mind-body therapies, such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga, is also beneficial. Stress causes the body to release stress hormones and alters brain chemistry, making nerves more sensitive. This can lead to dull or severe headaches accompanied by nausea.

Other methods that can control nausea and reduce headaches include: loosening tight clothing, especially around the abdomen; taking slow, deep breaths; applying an ice pack to the head or neck; opening a window or going outside for fresh air. Sipping warm herbal tea and avoiding strong-smelling foods can also lessen discomfort.

By Anh Chi (Source: Very Well Health)