By Dr. Christian Curtis DAc, LMT
Nearly everyone knows someone who has suffered from migraines at some point in their lives or suffered from it themselves. It is the most common thing for which people seek professional treatment. Most symptoms of migraines are of mild annoyance with some being quite painful, but for some people they can be downright incapacitating.
What is a Migraine Headache?
Migraines are described as severe throbbing headaches that happen periodically. They are usually felt on one side of the head (but can be both), most often behind the eye on that side, causing things like light and sound sensitivity. Visual changes can occur making everything one sees to have a blurry “aura” or even black spots. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, nausea, and even vomiting. When really severe, all one seems to be able to do is lay down in a quiet dark corner and ride it out, sometimes for a couple days.
How does Modern Medicine treat Migraines?
Western doctors usually manage headaches with painkillers. Over the counter (OTC) medication such as Aleve, Advil, Tylenol, even Aspirin can help. Some can be relieved with caffeine such as a good cup of coffee or caffeinated tea. There are prescription medications available that you can get from your physician like MAO inhibitors including Nardil or Phenelzine among others when OTCs just aren’t helping.
Aside from pain, migraines can lead to a poor quality of life where one may feel they cannot plan for things for fear of letting someone down or not being able to fulfill one’s commitments. As a result, battles with depression and anxiety can occur, and even thoughts of suicide.
What can Acupuncture do for Migraines?
I’m glad you asked!
In Chinese Medicine pain is caused by blockages of the energy flowing in our bodies. We acupuncturists use tiny thin needles on certain areas we call points that help the body (including the head) to heal itself through stimulation of it’s own pain-relieving chemicals and unblocking the energy of those painful areas. And not only can you get immediate results with just one session, but long lasting results with just a few treatments. Try acupuncture!
What are some things I can do in the meantime?
- Use a heat pack on the side or sides of the head
- If that doesn’t help, use an ice pack or ice cube on the temples
- You can use a cold pack or damp cool cloth on the back of the head and/or neck
- Relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation
- REST! (I know it can be hard to do at times)
- Exercise between episodes. 30 minutes of brisk exercise can release endorphins which have been shown to help prevent reoccurring migraines