Could have been cluster migraines/headaches. They are horrible and can cause nausea.
I used to suffer with cluster headaches, and they are some of the most painful headaches one can experience. It feels like someone has an ice pick and is sticking you in the eye, the temple, the nose, and the ear all at one time in addition to a burning sensation on one whole side of your face and neck. But cluster headaches and migraine headaches usually manifest themselves at an earlier age in your life. To only begin getting a severe headache at Rudy’s age can not be good.