How are migraine, nausea, diarrhea, and chills related. What causes these symptoms to occur together. How can you manage the combination of migraine, digestive issues, and chills effectively. What treatments are available for this complex set of symptoms.

The Intricate Relationship Between Migraine and Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Migraine attacks are often accompanied by a variety of symptoms beyond head pain. While nausea and vomiting are well-recognized associates of migraine, diarrhea is a less common but significant symptom that can occur. Understanding the connection between these symptoms is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Diarrhea, though not as prevalent as nausea or vomiting, can significantly impact the migraine experience. Dr. Roderick Spears, a neurologist and headache specialist at Penn Medicine, notes that a smaller percentage of migraine sufferers report diarrhea compared to vomiting. The presence of diarrhea can exacerbate the discomfort of a migraine attack, making it challenging to find relief in a dark, quiet room – a common coping strategy for many migraine sufferers.

The Role of Serotonin in Migraine and Digestive Symptoms

The connection between migraine and gastrointestinal symptoms may lie in the neurotransmitter serotonin. While primarily known for its role in mood regulation, serotonin also has a significant presence in the gut. During a migraine attack, changes in serotonin levels can affect both the brain and the digestive system.

For most migraine sufferers, gut motility slows down during an attack. However, in some cases, the opposite occurs, leading to increased gut motility and diarrhea. This variability in gut response highlights the complex nature of migraine and its systemic effects.

Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea: The Migraine Triad

Nausea and vomiting are recognized symptoms of migraine in the International Headache Society Classification ICHD-3. These symptoms can progress from mild nausea to severe vomiting if the migraine attack is not effectively managed.

Interestingly, some migraine sufferers, particularly younger individuals, report that vomiting can sometimes abort a migraine attack. This phenomenon is thought to be related to the reduction in intracranial pressure that occurs with vomiting. However, the exact mechanism behind this relief is not fully understood.

Is There a Link Between Migraine and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

While a direct causal relationship between migraine and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has not been established, research suggests a correlation between the two conditions. Studies have shown that individuals with migraine are more likely to have IBS, and vice versa.

A study published in the Polish Journal of Neurology and Neurosurgery found that 23 to 53 percent of people with IBS experienced frequent headaches, and 10 to 20 percent of the population had both migraine and IBS. This correlation suggests a potential shared underlying mechanism or risk factors between the two conditions.

The Impact of Caffeine on Migraine and Digestive Symptoms

Caffeine plays a complex role in migraine management. While it can provide relief for some, it can also trigger attacks in others. For those experiencing both migraine and diarrhea, caffeine consumption requires careful consideration.

Caffeine is a stimulant that increases gut motility, potentially exacerbating diarrhea in some individuals. This can lead to dehydration, which is a known migraine trigger for about one-third of migraine sufferers, according to the American Migraine Foundation.

Managing Caffeine Intake

• Monitor your personal response to caffeine
• Consider reducing or eliminating caffeine if it worsens symptoms
• Stay hydrated, especially if consuming caffeine
• Be aware of caffeine’s potential to contribute to medication-overuse headache

Dehydration: A Common Thread Between Migraine and Diarrhea

Dehydration can be both a trigger for migraine and a consequence of diarrhea. When diarrhea occurs during a migraine attack, it can lead to significant fluid loss, potentially worsening the headache and other symptoms.

Symptoms of dehydration can include dizziness, confusion, and increased head pain. Maintaining proper hydration is crucial for managing both migraine and diarrhea-related symptoms.

Strategies for Staying Hydrated

1. Drink water regularly throughout the day
2. Consider oral rehydration solutions for severe diarrhea
3. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration
4. Consume hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables

Managing Migraine with Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Treatment Approaches

Treating migraine with accompanying gastrointestinal symptoms requires a multifaceted approach. Addressing both the head pain and digestive issues simultaneously can lead to more effective symptom relief.

Pharmacological Interventions

Several medications can be used to manage migraine and associated symptoms:

• Triptans: These migraine-specific medications can help alleviate head pain and nausea
• Antiemetics: Medications to reduce nausea and vomiting
• NSAIDs: Can help with pain relief but may irritate the stomach in some individuals
• Antidiarrheal medications: May be used cautiously to manage diarrhea symptoms

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate medication regimen, as some treatments may interact or have contraindications.

Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications for Symptom Management

In addition to medication, lifestyle and dietary changes can play a significant role in managing migraine with gastrointestinal symptoms:

• Identify and avoid food triggers
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
• Stay hydrated
• Consider a low-FODMAP diet if IBS is also present

Keeping a symptom diary can help identify patterns and triggers, allowing for more personalized management strategies.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Migraine and Gastrointestinal Symptoms

While many migraine attacks with gastrointestinal symptoms can be managed at home, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention:

• Severe, persistent headache unlike previous migraine attacks
• Headache accompanied by fever, stiff neck, or rash
• Sudden onset of severe headache, often described as a “thunderclap”
• Headache following head injury
• Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea leading to signs of dehydration
• Blood in stool or vomit
• New neurological symptoms such as vision changes, weakness, or confusion

These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition and require prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Migraine and Gastrointestinal Health

The field of migraine research is continually evolving, with increasing interest in the gut-brain connection. Recent studies have explored the potential role of the gut microbiome in migraine pathophysiology and management.

Promising Areas of Research

• Probiotics and their potential to reduce migraine frequency and severity
• The impact of dietary interventions on both migraine and gastrointestinal symptoms
• Novel drug targets that address both neurological and digestive aspects of migraine
• Personalized medicine approaches based on individual gut microbiome profiles

As research progresses, new treatment options and management strategies may emerge, offering hope for those struggling with the complex interplay of migraine and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Holistic Approaches to Migraine and Digestive Health

Integrative medicine approaches are gaining attention for their potential to address both migraine and gastrointestinal symptoms. These methods aim to treat the whole person, considering physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors.

Complementary Therapies to Consider

• Acupuncture: May help reduce migraine frequency and severity
• Biofeedback: Can teach relaxation techniques to manage pain and stress
• Herbal supplements: Some herbs may have benefits for both migraine and digestive health (consult a healthcare provider before use)
• Mindfulness and meditation: Can help manage stress and pain perception
• Gentle exercise: Regular physical activity may reduce migraine frequency and improve gut health

While these approaches may not replace conventional treatments, they can be valuable additions to a comprehensive management plan. It’s important to discuss any complementary therapies with a healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate for individual circumstances.

The Psychological Impact of Migraine with Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Living with migraine and accompanying gastrointestinal symptoms can have a significant impact on quality of life and mental health. The unpredictability and severity of symptoms can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation.

Coping Strategies and Support

• Seek support from family, friends, or support groups
• Consider cognitive-behavioral therapy to develop coping mechanisms
• Practice self-compassion and stress-reduction techniques
• Educate loved ones about the condition to foster understanding and support
• Explore relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation or guided imagery

Addressing the psychological aspects of living with migraine and gastrointestinal symptoms is crucial for overall well-being and can contribute to better symptom management.

Navigating Work and Social Life with Migraine and Digestive Issues

Balancing work, social commitments, and symptom management can be challenging for those experiencing migraine with gastrointestinal symptoms. However, with proper planning and communication, it’s possible to maintain a fulfilling professional and social life.

Strategies for Work and Social Situations

• Communicate with employers about your condition and discuss potential accommodations
• Plan ahead for social events, considering potential triggers and having an exit strategy if needed
• Carry a “migraine kit” with medications, water, and comfort items
• Learn to recognize early warning signs and take proactive measures
• Consider flexible work arrangements or remote work options when possible

By developing strategies to manage symptoms in various settings, individuals can maintain their professional and social connections while prioritizing their health.

The Link Between Migraine Headache and Diarrhea

If you experience diarrhea as a symptom of migraine, the abdominal cramps and dehydration that may result can make your throbbing head pain even more unbearable. Frequent trips to the bathroom can also make escaping to a dark room or sleeping off migraine pain impossible for those unfortunate people who have diarrhea along with their headaches.

There may be ways to manage your medications and the foods you eat to help ease your gastrointestinal symptoms and even shorten your migraine attacks. Here are some answers to common questions about diarrhea and migraine.

1. Is Diarrhea Common With Migraine Attacks?

Diarrhea isn’t a common symptom of migraine, but it definitely occurs, says Roderick Spears, MD, a neurologist and headache specialist at Penn Medicine in Philadelphia. “A smaller percentage of people will say they have diarrhea as a symptom of migraine compared to vomiting,” he says.

Unlike diarrhea, nausea and vomiting are both symptoms listed in the International Headache Society Classification ICHD-3 for migraine.

Diarrhea can occur as a symptom of any type of migraine; it’s not related to one specific type, says Dr. Spears.

2. What Causes Diarrhea and Headaches?

“We think that there is a connection between diarrhea and headaches, with serotonin being the common denominator,” says Spears. Serotonin is a major neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, but there are also a lot of serotonin receptors in the gut, he explains.

“In the majority of people with migraine, the gut will actually slow down during the attack and not move anything forward. In the worst-case scenario, things go in the opposite direction, and people experience vomiting, but for a smaller percentage of people, migraine will actually speed the gut up, and they develop diarrhea,” says Spears.

3. Why Do Migraine Attacks Cause Vomiting and Diarrhea?

“Sometimes nausea can turn into vomiting if the migraine isn’t stopped,” says Spears. But why vomiting or diarrhea can be part of the cascade of migraine isn’t totally clear, he says.

“We know that vomiting will decrease intracranial [within the skull] pressure. There are some migraine patients, especially younger people, who tell me that if they vomit during a migraine attack, it will abort the attack,” says Spears.

4. Can Digestive Issues Cause Migraine?

It hasn’t been proven that irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) causes migraine or vice versa, says Spears, but “there is a correlation between the two conditions. If you have migraine, it seems you’re more likely to have IBS, and if you have IBS, you’re more likely to have migraine,” he says.

A study published in the Polish Journal of Neurology and Neurosurgery found that 23 to 53 percent of people with IBS experienced frequent headaches, and that 10 to 20 percent of the population had both migraine and IBS.

A diagnosis of IBS is different from gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms during a migraine attack, says Spears. “When a person has IBS, they are having either diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal bloating going on most of the time, and they can cycle between those different phases,” says Spears.

Even if you experience those types of GI symptoms in migraine, they wouldn’t be present all the time, he explains. “Even in chronic migraine, you wouldn’t have a lot of patients in that category,” he says.

Chronic migraine is when a person experiences 15 or more days per month of headache with migrainous features for at least three months, according to the Migraine Research Foundation. Episodic migraine is when a person has fewer than 15 headache days per month.

RELATED: What You Need to Know About IBS and Migraine

5. Should I Limit Caffeine if I Have Migraine and Diarrhea?

People with migraine have several reasons to use caffeine with caution. One is that either too much or too little caffeine can trigger a migraine attack. Another is that ingesting too much caffeine regularly can contribute to medication-overuse headache.

With regard to diarrhea, specifically, caffeine is a stimulant that increases gut motility, or the movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract, according to Michigan Health.  In some people, caffeine consumption can result in loose stools or diarrhea, which can be dehydrating.

Your own experience will guide your decision about whether and how much caffeine to consume during or between migraine attacks.

6. Can Dehydration From Diarrhea Affect My Headache?

If you have diarrhea and experience dehydration as a result, that could cause a headache; about 1 out of 3 people with migraine report dehydration as a trigger, according to the American Migraine Foundation. Dizziness and confusion can be a result of dehydration as well.

Even in the case where diarrhea is a symptom resulting from an underlying illness or infection, it may actually be the dehydration that triggers the headache, says Spears.

“If diarrhea hits after your migraine attack begins, there’s a risk that the dehydration could end up prolonging your migraine attack,” says Spears. “If you’re not able to keep liquids in your system, you might end up needing an IV to get better, which is typically given in the emergency room or an infusion suite,” he adds.

RELATED: 12 Foods to Help Get Rid of a Headache or Migraine Attack Naturally

7. Could Food Sensitivities Cause Migraine and Diarrhea?

Some people believe that certain foods can trigger a migraine, but there is little evidence that a diet that eliminates certain types of foods helps to prevent migraine, according to the American Migraine Foundation.

A small number of people with migraine are sensitive to gluten or have celiac disease, says Spears. “Once they figure it out and eliminate gluten from their diet, it can help prevent migraine attacks, but there aren’t a great deal of patients who fit into that category,” he adds.

8. Are Some Migraine Treatment Options Better for People Who Get Diarrhea?

“If a person is prone to diarrhea, it’s a good idea stay away from certain medications that are used preventively for migraine, such as the antidepressants SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) that may speed the gut up,” says Spears.

There are potential side effects for some acute medications as well. Some over-the-counter and prescription drugs, such as Excedrin Migraine or Fioricet, contain caffeine, which may contribute to diarrhea.

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Is There A Relationship Between Migraines And Diarrhea?

Content

• Overview
• Migraine vs. headache
• What is a migraine?
• What is diarrhea?
• Migraines, diarrhea, and how they’re related
• Will diarrhea-related dehydration affect my migraine?
• Diagnosis of migraine
• Treatment
• Prevention
• When to see a doctor
• The lowdown

A migraine is one of the most debilitating experiences your body can put you through. Intense pulsating pains, visual changes, and sensitivity to light or sound are some symptoms that characterize migraines. However, that’s not the end of it. While relatively uncommon, studies¹ indicate a link between migraines and gastrointestinal (GI) tract disorders.

If you’re experiencing migraines with diarrhea, escaping to your quiet, low-light bedroom might be made difficult by the frequent trips you have to make to the bathroom. This guide will help you understand what’s happening in your body and give you a few insights as to how to manage both issues.

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Statista reports that over 15%² of adults in the U.S. complain of migraines or severe headaches. 

Most people think of migraines as more intense headaches. However, headaches are but a symptom of migraines and often differ from individual to individual in terms of length and severity.

A migraine is a neurological condition that affects brain chemicals, blood vessels, and nerve pathways. These changes are what cause splitting headaches as well as other symptoms. 

Symptoms

Symptoms associated with migraines include, but aren’t limited to:

A person suffering from a migraine may experience a few or all the symptoms.

Phases

A migraine episode occurs in four phases, although not everyone goes through all of them. They include:

Prodrome phase

The prodrome phase is also known as the pre-headache stage. It is characterized by painless manifestations hours or even days before the migraine fully arrives. Stiffness of the neck, food cravings, and mood swings are some of the indicators.

Aura phase

You can expect sensory disruption (auras) during this stage. It occurs either before or during your migraine. However, not everyone experiences auras, with those feeling them reporting strange disturbances in their speech, touch, or sight.

Headache phase

As you’d expect, this is when the pain begins kicking in. Its intensity may range from slight to debilitating. Exposure to sound, smells, light, and physical activity may increase the pain.  

Postdrome phase

During this phase, most, if not all, of the pain has subsided. This final stage is characterized by fatigue, confusion, or general malaise.

Risk factors

Tracing the origins of a normal headache is easy, but the exact cause of migraines remains unclear. Despite this frustrating lack of concrete information, there are common triggers associated with this affliction.

These triggers differ among individuals but normally include the following.

Hormonal shifts and gender

Menstrual cycles in women and hormonal changes are potent risk factors. It is why women are three times more likely³ to have migraines compared to men.

Allergies

The proper scientific term is allergic rhinitis. Irritation in the body due to allergies causes inflammation. As migraines are linked to inflammation of blood pathways, allergies and asthma act as triggers for some individuals.

Genetics

If migraines are common in your family, then you’re more predisposed to them than someone who doesn’t have a family history of migraine headaches. 

In 2013, a UCSF (University of California, San Francisco) research team identified a genetic mutation⁴ associated with typical migraines.

Ambient conditions

Many triggers fall under this blanket. Some of these include certain smells, the weather, lack of sleep, not enough water, and stress.

Diarrhea is a medical condition characterized by loose and watery stools, occurring three or more times within a day; it can be diagnosed by its severity.

Kinds of diarrhea

There are three types of diarrhea: acute, persistent, and chronic. 

Acute diarrhea is a common occurrence and usually disappears on its own after one or two days. Persistent diarrhea, on the other hand, goes on for longer than two weeks but less than four.

Finally, chronic diarrhea lasts for at least four weeks. The symptoms may come and go, or they may be continual.

Research estimates reveal roughly 179 million acute diarrhea cases⁵ are reported in the United States per year.  

Symptoms

Some symptoms of diarrhea include:

• Watery or loose stools

• A pressing need to visit the bathroom

• Nausea

• Abdominal pains

• Lack of control of bowel movements

Diarrhea stemming from infections may have one or several of the following signs:

Diarrhea also causes malabsorption of food and dehydration.

Causes and risk factors

Chronic diarrhea and acute diarrhea may differ in their causative elements. Acute diarrhea and persistent diarrhea are normally caused by:

• Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections

• Travelers’ diarrhea

• Medications like cancer medicines, antibiotics, and antacids with magnesium

Chronic diarrhea is usually a result of:

• Infections and parasites

• Food allergies, for example, lactose intolerance

• Digestive tract issues such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and irritable bowel syndrome

• Abdominal surgery

• Long-term medication

We’ve seen that while vomiting and nausea are common symptoms of migraines, diarrhea isn’t; the likelihood, however, is still present. The direct link between the two illnesses is still being studied. Contemporary research continues to link migraines to GI disorders⁶, such as inflammatory bowel syndrome and irritable bowel syndrome.        

Serotonin also has long been known to be a common denominator between headaches and diarrhea. This neurotransmitter helps regulate and stabilize moods, and interestingly enough, its receptors are prevalent in the gut. 

The digestive system slows down for most people when they have a migraine. On the other end of the spectrum, some people’s systems move faster, and they throw up. A small group of people, however, develop diarrhea when the gut speeds up.

If you experience recurring problems with your GI tract like diarrhea and constipation, you may be at a higher risk of having chronic migraines. Inflammation and heightened gut permeability may be responsible for this association. 

The American Migraine Foundation reports that one in three people experiencing migraines cites dehydration as one of the triggers. The confusion and dizziness common with migraines can also be worsened by dehydration. 

Even when diarrhea is a symptom of an infection or underlying illness, dehydration may be the main culprit behind your headaches.

The diagnosis of a migraine accompanied by diarrhea requires the doctor or medical practitioner to engage with you to inquire about your symptoms and assess your medical history. Questions about any possible triggers and frequency of these headaches and loose stools are to be expected.

Investigating potential triggers will normally require a food allergy or intolerance examination. There are also a few additional tests that the medical center may carry out, namely:

A neurologist will be best placed to diagnose your migraine headaches; they’ll likely do this via a physical exam. Neuroimaging techniques such as CT and MRI scans may be used to attempt to see what’s happening inside your head.  

While migraines don’t have a lasting, permanent cure, the symptoms of both migraine and diarrhea can be managed. 

Doctors, for example, recommend you keep a food journal. You can discover foods or beverages that trigger diarrhea and migraines in this manner.

You can also learn proper stress management practices to help with your migraine headaches. These include exercise, biofeedback therapy, yoga, and other relaxation techniques.

You can also use Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medication to treat your migraines. Drugs like ubrogepant, nortriptyline, amitriptyline, lasmiditan, and erenumab are typically used.

With regards to your diarrhea, you can use over-the-counter medications for it. Bismuth subsalicylate and loperamide are good examples. If you experience fever and bloody stools, consult your doctor first about using these medicines.

As migraine triggers are unique to the individual, working with a doctor familiar with your medical history is best. Try to document what you eat, your stress, anxiety levels, and any other factors preceding the migraine. You may be able to see patterns once you have all this information.

Once the symptoms are evident, retreat to a dark and quiet room to see if the aches subside. Experiment with either a hot or cold compress to see what eases your symptoms. Caffeine is also known to help during the early stages of a migraine. Limit your caffeine intake, though. Overindulge in coffee, and you might be in for a caffeine withdrawal later.

People with frequent migraine episodes may need to take medication daily. Your doctor will talk you through your options and potential side effects.

The symptoms of a migraine accompanied by diarrhea generally vanish on their own or when treated using the appropriate home remedies.  

Contact your doctor if:

• Your migraine episodes are increasing in severity and frequency

• You’re passing six or more watery stools in 24 hours

• You have a fever exceeding 102 degrees Fahrenheit

• You feel severe rectal or abdominal pain

• Your diarrhea lasts more than two days

• Your stool is tarry and black or contains pus or blood

• Symptoms of dehydration manifest

• You have blurred vision or difficulty breathing

Senior citizens or adults with compromised immune systems who experience these indicators are especially at risk.

Diarrhea isn’t the most common symptom of a migraine. Yet, both conditions are linked. Your gastric health may affect the frequency and intensity of migraine episodes.

Both migraines and diarrhea can be manageable using proper medication and avoiding your triggers. Visit your doctor for a check-up if you experience both conditions.

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March 17

Motion sickness: causes of occurrence, in which diseases it occurs, diagnosis and methods of treatment.

Definition

Motion sickness syndrome, called kinetosis, is a pathological reaction of the body to unusual movement. On average, 5-10% of people suffer from systematic transport motion sickness. Seasickness occurs in 50-60% of sea transport passengers. Among children under 12 years of age, motion sickness is observed in more than 60% of cases, and among children aged 10 to 20 years – in 45% of respondents.

Varieties of motion sickness

The most well-known varieties of motion sickness are sea sickness, car sickness, carriage sickness, air sickness, less well-known ones are riding sickness, space sickness, as well as sickness of elevators, swings, attractions, etc.

Kinetoses are distinguished with mild, severe and severe course.

Light kinetosis is similar to a state of fatigue – a person experiences lethargy, drowsiness, often yawns, can “feel” the stomach, then pallor (less often – reddening of the face), cold sweat, increased salivation with frequent swallowing movements, tachycardia.
With a pronounced form, shortness of breath, nausea, flatulence, belching of air are observed, there may be repeated vomiting, bringing short-term relief, taste perversion, chills or a feeling of heat, headache in the forehead, tinnitus, anxiety.
The severe form is accompanied by cardiac arrhythmias, disorientation, fainting.

Depending on the clinical manifestations, several forms of motion sickness are distinguished: nervous, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and mixed.

The nervous (neurological) form is characterized by dizziness, impaired coordination, a feeling of heaviness in the head, headache, weakness, drowsiness, pallor, and increased sweating.
The gastrointestinal form is manifested by nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite. In this case, there may be distortions of taste sensations, an unpleasant feeling in the mouth, for example, a taste of soap or metal. Characterized by increased sensitivity and a feeling of disgust to the smells of burnt food, tobacco smoke, exhaust gases, etc.

The cardiovascular form is first manifested by increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, and the development of arrhythmias. As the condition worsens and the process of motion sickness becomes more severe, the pulse slows down more and more, the pressure decreases, breathing becomes shallow. This form of kinetosis is dangerous for people suffering from cardiovascular diseases.

Most often, people are faced with a mixed form, in which the symptoms occur in different combinations.

Symptoms usually develop gradually. First, a person begins to yawn, his breathing quickens, he turns pale, cold sweat, salivation, drowsiness, aerophagia (swallowing air), dizziness, headache, general malaise, fatigue appear. Then the increasing nausea, vomiting join, coordination of movements is disturbed, weakness increases, the person cannot concentrate.

Possible causes of motion sickness

Changes in body position in space cause irritation of various analyzers – the vestibular apparatus (located in the inner ear), visual and auditory analyzers, receptors of internal organs, muscles, joints. So, for example, when we turn our head, all analyzers work in concert – the eyes fix a change in the picture, the neck muscles send signals about the movement, the vestibular apparatus also receives information about the change in the position of the head in space. If there is an imbalance between the signals, this leads to unpleasant sensations. For example, if we read in the back seat of a car, the organs of balance register the movement, but the eyes concentrate on a still picture, this person begins to get motion sick.

The vestibular apparatus, which is responsible for the balance of the body, is finally formed only by the age of 12-16, so many children suffer from motion sickness.

Factors that can increase the development of motion sickness include unpleasant sounds, odors (eg, gasoline, tobacco smoke, paint), elevated air temperature, alcohol intake, overwork, emotional stress, menstruation, childhood and old age. Motion sickness can be provoked by fear, anxiety, activation of attention. The manifestations of kinetosis are more pronounced in people with increased excitability of the nervous system or the vestibular analyzer.
Diseases that can cause motion sickness

People with inflammatory diseases of the middle and inner ear, pathologies of the visual apparatus (astigmatism, strabismus), heart and blood vessels, and the gastrointestinal tract are susceptible to kinetosis. Pregnant women are at risk.

Which doctors to contact for motion sickness

neurologist. In some cases, it may be necessary to consult an otoneurologist and an otorhinolaryngologist.

Diagnosis and examination of motion sickness

Complaints often characteristic of kinetosis allow the doctor to easily establish a diagnosis. However, the symptoms of motion sickness can be manifestations of various neurological and somatic diseases, for example, Meniere’s disease, vestibular migraine, benign positional vertigo, otosclerosis, multiple sclerosis, tumors, acute cerebrovascular accidents and a number of other diseases. The following methods are used for differential diagnosis:

• nystagmography;
• caloric test;
• vestibular evoked myogenic potentials;
• computerized dynamic posturography.

To assess cerebral blood flow, ultrasound diagnostics is performed.

Duplex scanning of the brachiocephalic arteries with color Doppler flow mapping

Examination to evaluate blood flow in the vertebral and carotid arteries.

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Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and cervical spine is performed to rule out masses, malformations, and demyelinating processes (eg, multiple sclerosis).

MRI of the brain

Safe and informative scanning of brain structures for the diagnosis of its pathologies.

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MRI of the brain and cervical spine

Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine and brain for diagnosis and selection of the optimal treatment option.

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To exclude an infectious lesion of the central nervous system, specific immunological reactions are used.

What to do in case of motion sickness

To reduce the risk of motion sickness during trips, it is recommended to have a good rest and sleep at least 8 hours a day before they start, stop drinking alcohol, limit smoking.

You should not overeat before the road, but hunger can also increase nausea, so you should avoid traveling on an empty stomach.

The best meal before a trip is a light vegetable or dairy dish. During a long trip, you need to eat something light (vegetables, fruits, yoghurts) often and little by little. Before the road, you should not drink a lot of liquid, and it is better to refuse highly carbonated drinks altogether. You can take sedatives, after consulting with your doctor.

To prevent motion sickness, it is necessary to choose places with the smallest amplitude of movement, for example, located in the middle part of the ship or in the part of the aircraft fuselage located between the wings. In land transport, it is better to choose to sit down or stand up facing in the direction of travel.

Night flights are usually easier to carry, so you should give preference to night flights.

During movement, it is advisable to use a fixing pillow or collar, take a comfortable position, reclining if possible, tilting the chair back as much as possible – this will minimize head movements. You should not look out the side windows and actively follow the flickering of objects outside the window, watch the waves while swimming, read a book or text on your tablet / phone.

There are methods of training the vestibular apparatus to help fight motion sickness. So, swinging on a swing or in a hammock with a gradual increase in amplitude is considered useful. Recommended physical exercises with tilts, head turns, torso rotations, somersaults. Sports games such as volleyball, basketball, tennis, football can help to adapt to driving with accelerations. People suffering from motion sickness benefit from cycling and mountain skiing, ballroom dancing and aerobics.

Motion sickness treatment

Medicines are also used to treat motion sickness. First of all, their action is aimed at stopping nausea and vomiting (blockers of dopamine and serotonin receptors). In addition, the doctor may recommend antihistamines (blockers of h2- or h4-histamine receptors of the inner ear and vestibular nuclei), M-anticholinergics, nootropic drugs. Combined agents that include several active substances from different pharmacological groups are highly effective.

Sources:

1. Prokhorova A.V. Kinetosis, or motion sickness syndrome: treatment and prevention // Journal of Theoretical and Clinical Medicine. – 2018. – No. 1. – P. 95-98.
2. Pivovarova A.M. Kinetosis is a disease of movement. Symptoms, diagnosis, prevention and treatment // Pediatric practice. – 2015. – No. 1. – S. 38-40.

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.
For a correct assessment of the results of your analyzes in dynamics, it is preferable to do studies in the same laboratory, since different laboratories may use different research methods and units of measurement to perform the same analyzes.

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Hepatic (biliary) colic: causes, in which diseases it occurs, diagnosis and methods of treatment.

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Cor pulmonale: causes of occurrence, in what diseases it occurs, diagnosis and methods of treatment.

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Cough is one of the most common symptoms of respiratory diseases. In most cases, pathological changes in the vessels of the bronchi and lungs become the cause of hemoptysis.

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Migraine with aura

If before a migraine attack you have stereotypical symptoms, such as transient visual disturbances (flickering lines in front of the eyes, loss of visual fields), numbness of a part of the body, a feeling of “tingling”, a change in consciousness, then you may be suffering from migraine with aura. In rare cases, an aura occurs without the subsequent development of a migraine attack. This is the so-called “headless migraine”. Some patients report manifestations of two types of migraine: with and without aura. Such a combination of symptoms can often only be sorted out by a headache specialist. A professional diagnosis allows you to prescribe the right treatment. The neurologists at our Headache Center are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of migraine.

Symptoms of migraine with aura

A migraine attack with aura usually consists of 4 phases.

Prodromal phase

This phase precedes the headache. Its duration varies from several hours to several days.

Frequent symptoms:

• Bouts of hunger

• Constipation or diarrhea

• Mood changes, irritability, depression

• Frequent urination

• Neck muscle stiffness

• Fatigue

• Yawn

Aura

The aura begins 10-60 minutes before the onset of a headache. If a patient takes anti-migraine drugs during the aura, then a migraine attack may not develop.

Symptoms:

• Visual disturbances (flickering lines, dots, loss of visual fields)

• Olfactory hallucinations (acute perception of smells that others do not feel)

• Tingling or numbness in a body part

• Impaired speech or perception of other people’s speech

• incomplete paralysis

Headache

The most characteristic symptom of a migraine attack is a unilateral throbbing headache of temporal or parietal localization. The intensity of the headache can range from mild to intense. Often the pain begins in the early morning hours and the duration of a migraine attack ranges from 1 to 72 hours.

Symptoms:

• Unilateral pain that worsens with physical activity

• Nausea and/or vomiting

• Intolerance to bright light, sounds, smells

• Diarrhea or constipation

• Nasal congestion or nasal discharge

• Feeling hot or chilly

• Dizziness

Postdromal phase

The postdromal period can last from several hours to several days. During this period, patients often describe a feeling of fatigue, nervous exhaustion, and a decrease in mental activity. In many cases, there is hypersensitivity of the scalp (it hurts to comb).

Treatment of patients suffering from migraine without aura may include relief of migraine attacks and prevention of migraine attacks. To reduce the severity of headache during migraine, the patient can retire for several hours in a dark, quiet room. Often, sleep is interrupted by a migraine attack even without the use of analgesics.

In case of development of moderate or severe headache, it is necessary to take painkillers. These can be both over-the-counter (aspirin, paracetamol, naproxen, combined analgesics with caffeine) and prescription drugs (triptans). The last group of drugs is a very effective remedy for stopping attacks of migraine pain.

If migraine attacks recur frequently, manifest as a severe headache, a significant decrease in work capacity, a headache specialist may suggest taking medications that have a preventive effect.