Migraine -What are the signs & how can it be managed?

Migraine is a neurologic disorder which is often under-diagnosed as it is dismissed by many as just a bad one-sided headache. It has a strong genetic component, and is commonly known to have episodes of moderate-to-severe headaches, mostly one-sided (unilateral0 and may also be accompanied by nausea and an increased sensitivity to light and/or sound.

Source: https://qatar-weill.cornell.edu/institute-for-population-health/community/stay-safe-stay-healthy/issue/migraine-more-than-just-a-headache

Migraine is often controlled by pain killers and anti-histamines to help with sleep by many. This is unsafe way to deal with this condition as the signs may also indicate other more serious conditions. Moreover, self-treating with over-the-counter medications take away the opportunity for people to make sense of why the condition is occurring & reoccurring.

Subtypes of Migraine:

1. Migraine with aura

2. Migraine without aura

3. Chronic migraine

4. Episodic syndromes associated with migraine (ex. recurrent gastrointestinal disturbances/vertigo)

Complications of migraine:

• Status migrainosus: migraine attack that lasts more than 72 hours.

• Migraine aura-triggered seizure

Source: https://www.everydayhealth.com/migraine/guide/

Symptoms of migraine should never be underestimated & needs to be evaluated by a physician. Not every headaches are the same & there are some red-flag signs that need to be looked out for.

Basic habits that one should not compromise on:

• Limit your screen-time

• Spend time with nature (to ensure the eyes accommodate to far-sight & being among trees and plants calms the nervous system)

• Get your gastrointestinal issues treated immediately (ex. acid reflux)

• Ensure that you shut off all electrical devices & reduce exposure to blue light at least an hour before bed-time

• Make sure you have good quality sleep (the number of hours should preferably be around 7-8)

How do we treat in Siddha Medicine?

The first thing that any siddha physician would first do is to rule out differential diagnoses based on detailed history taking & physical examination. Lifestyle modifications may need to be done, and along with medicines like thirikadugu choornam, drakshathi kashayam, and many more, this can be treated well.

Speak to your physician to make sure this is taken care of. Do not suffer in silence.