Migraine

A migraine is a chronic neurological condition characterized by recurrent, intense headaches, often accompanied by symptoms like nausea, sensitivity to light (photophobia), sound (phonophobia), and sometimes aura (visual or sensory disturbances). It affects both men and women, though it is more common in women, often linked to hormonal changes.

 

Types of Migraines

1. Migraine with Aura:

• Preceded by sensory disturbances such as visual changes (flashing lights, blind spots), tingling sensations, or speech difficulties.

2. Migraine without Aura:

• The most common type, occurring without any warning signs or sensory disturbances.

3. Chronic Migraine:

• Headache occurs on 15 or more days per month for at least 3 months, with features of migraine on at least 8 of those days.

4. Silent Migraine:

• Symptoms of aura or other migraine signs occur without a headache.

5. Hemiplegic Migraine:

• A rare type of migraine causing temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of the body.

Symptoms of Migraine

• Headache: Moderate to severe throbbing or pulsing pain, often on one side of the head.
• Aura: Visual disturbances like zigzag patterns, flashing lights, or temporary vision loss.
• Nausea and Vomiting.
• Sensitivity: To light, sound, and sometimes smells.
• Fatigue or Irritability: Both during and after a migraine attack.
• Cognitive Disturbances: Difficulty concentrating or confusion (migraine fog).

Causes and Triggers of Migraine

1. Neurological Causes:

• Abnormal brain activity affecting blood vessels and nerve signals.

2. Hormonal Changes:

• Fluctuations in estrogen (e.g., during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause).

3. Common Triggers:

• Stress, lack of sleep, irregular meals, or dehydration.
• Food triggers like caffeine, alcohol, aged cheese, and processed foods.
• Bright lights, loud noises, or strong odours.

4. Genetic Factors:

• Family history of migraines increases susceptibility.

Complications of Migraine

• Chronic Migraine: Frequent episodes impacting daily life.
• Medication Overuse Headache: Rebound headaches due to excessive painkiller use.
• Stroke Risk: Rare but higher in people with migraine with aura.

Ayurvedic Interpretation of Migraine

In Ayurveda, migraine is closely associated with "Ardhavabhedaka", a condition described as intense pain in half the head. It results from an imbalance in Vata and Pitta Dosha, often aggravated by poor digestion (Ama accumulation) and stress.

• Vata Imbalance: Leads to throbbing, pulsating pain and nervous system dysfunction.
• Pitta Imbalance: Causes heat-related symptoms like burning sensations, sensitivity, and irritability.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Migraine

Panchakarma Therapies

• Virechana (Purgation Therapy): Eliminates Pitta dosha and detoxifies the body.
• Nasya (Nasal Therapy): Medicated oils are administered through the nose to clear toxins.
• Shirodhara: Continuous pouring of medicated oil on the forehead to calm the mind and reduce stress.

Dietary Recommendations

Foods to Include:

• Cooling foods like cucumber, coconut water, and ghee.
• Easily digestible meals to strengthen digestion.
• Herbal teas like ginger tea or tulsi tea.

Foods to Avoid:

• Spicy, sour, and fried foods.
• Caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods

Lifestyle Modifications

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
• Practice stress management techniques like yoga and meditation.
• Avoid excessive screen time or exposure to bright lights.
• Yoga and Pranayama daily

Ayurvedic Formulations

• Pathyadi Kashaya: Traditionally used for migraines and headaches.
• Shadbindu Taila: Nasal drops to balance doshas in the head region.
• Chandraprabha Vati: Supports overall neurological health.

Herbal Remedies

Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri):

Improves memory, calms the mind, and reduces stress.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):

Reduces anxiety and strengthens the nervous system.

Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi):

Aids in calming the mind and relieves headaches.

Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis):

Balances Pitta and Vata, improves mental clarity.

Triphala:

Detoxifies the body and improves digestion.