Migraine is a condition where a person feels pain on only one side of the head. It may continue for few hours to few days. It is worsened by light, sneezing, straining, constant motion, physical activity, or even moving head rapidly. Laying down in a dark room gives good relief. The pain usually begins in a small way, intensifies, and gradually resolves. It is throbbing or pulsatile when severe.
How can one distinguish between a migraine and a normal headache?
According to Dr. Rangnayakulu, “A normal headache doesn’t last for more than a few hours and is experienced on both sides of the head, whereas Migraine is unilateral, and can last for more than two days. In Ayurveda, it is known as Ardhavabhedhaka. It is caused by excessive consumption of dry food, exposure to fog and mist, and excessive exhaustion.”
Do women suffer more than men from Migraines?
Yes, women suffer more than men due to genetic reasons and hormonal imbalances.
It is sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Tears in the eyes or stuffiness in the nose may be seen. About 20% of the people suffering from Migraines experience aura, that is the appearance of flashing lights or bright spots, zigzag lines, changes in vision, numbness or tingling in fingers, lips, tongue, and lower face. It may also affect speech. Aura symptoms may be over within half an hour.
Treatment:
As per Dr. Rangnayakulu, one can manage this headache with the help of ayurvedic medicines and lifestyle management, but there is no cure for this problem. Ayurveda recommends the following treatments for migraines.
Pressing down the juice of medicinal plants into nostrils (avapeedana nasya).
- Roots and fruits of Lebbeck tree (sireesha/Albizia lebbeck)
- Roots of bamboo.
- Licorice powder mixed with honey
- Sandalwood powder with honey
- Realgar powder (red arsenic)
- Nasal drops of Anu taila(Oil), 6 drops in each nostril on alternate days for 2 weeks.
Other Treatments include:
- Anointing head with a paste of sarsaparilla (Hemidesmous indicus), Blue lotus
- Oleation to the entire body, use ghee every day
- Steam bath and vapor treatments
- Purgation therapy
- Drink milk mixed with sugar
- Apply Vidangadi lepa as an ointment
- Kaphakethu rasa tablets for 30 days.
The patient may find an appropriate technique and method by which he/she feels restful. It is usually triggered by excess moisture and noise pollution. Retiring to a dark room and eating sweets will alleviate the problem.
Also Read: Menstrual Migraine: Headaches Before, During And Post Your Period
