Severe Headache and Vomiting: Is It Related to Neurological Issues?

Severe headache accompanied by persistent vomiting?

Doctor, I have a headache that makes me vomit continuously until there's nothing left to vomit.
The pain is located below my right eye socket.
Could this be related to something inside my head?

piipiiya, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/30

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

Such severe headaches and vomiting should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider for immediate evaluation and management of the acute discomfort.
As for the cause of the headache, it needs to be determined through a careful assessment of the timing and characteristics of the episodes.

Reply Date: 2015/11/30

More Info

Severe headaches accompanied by vomiting can indeed be indicative of underlying neurological issues, and it's essential to approach this symptom with caution. The symptoms you describe—intense headache localized around the right eye and persistent vomiting—could be associated with several conditions that warrant medical evaluation.

One of the primary concerns with severe headaches and vomiting is the possibility of increased intracranial pressure. This can occur due to various reasons, including but not limited to, intracranial hemorrhage (bleeding within the skull), brain tumors, or severe migraines. Migraines, in particular, can cause debilitating headaches often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The pain is typically unilateral (affecting one side of the head), which aligns with your description of pain near the right eye.

Another potential cause could be a condition known as a cluster headache, which is characterized by severe, unilateral pain often around the eye, accompanied by autonomic symptoms such as tearing or nasal congestion. These headaches can also lead to nausea and vomiting, although they are usually episodic rather than continuous.

Additionally, the presence of vomiting can suggest that the body is reacting to a more severe underlying issue. For instance, if there is an infection, such as meningitis, it can present with severe headaches, vomiting, and other neurological signs. Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, and it can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Given your symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. A healthcare professional will likely perform a thorough neurological examination and may recommend imaging studies such as a CT scan or MRI of the brain to rule out any serious conditions. Blood tests and lumbar puncture (spinal tap) may also be necessary to check for infections or other abnormalities.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to common conditions like migraines or tension headaches, the severity and combination of your symptoms—particularly the vomiting—suggest that it is essential to rule out more serious neurological issues. Prompt evaluation by a neurologist or an emergency physician is recommended to ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to severe headaches and associated symptoms.

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