A migraine is a very painful type of
headache. People who get migraines often describe the pain as pulsing or
throbbing in one area of the head. During migraines, people are very sensitive
to light and sound. They may become nauseated and vomit. More than 29.5 million
Americans suffer from migraine, with women being affected three times more
often than men. This vascular headache is most commonly experienced between the
ages of 15 and 55, and 70% to 80% of sufferers have a family history of
migraine.
Many things can trigger a migraine.
These include
Anxiety
Stress
Lack of food or sleep
Exposure to light
Hormonal changes (in women)
Migraine characteristics can
include:
Pain typically on one side of the head
Pain has a pulsating or throbbing quality
Moderate to intense pain affecting daily activities
Nausea or vomiting
Sensitivity to light or sound
Attacks last four to 72 hours, may longer
Visual disturbances or aura
Exertion such as climbing stairs makes headache worse
NSAIDs (nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs may be effective for migraine or chronic tension
headaches. For the occasional headache this may be an excellent and effective
choice. But when used regularly, NSAIDs can produce side effects: upper gastrointestinal
disorders (nausea, heartburn, and diarrhea), liver stress, and may actually
lead to "rebound" headaches.
Acupuncture can offer powerful
relief without the side effects that prescription and over-the-counter drugs
can cause. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs have been used to relieve headaches,
migraines and their underlying causes for thousands of years. If you would like
to pursue this form of treatment or information, please contact Xiaoyan.
Migraine
