Like a Vice Squeezing My Head

The Problem with Migraines and Steps You Need to Take Now to Prevent them.

Individuals who live with chronic migraine headaches know all too well about the inability to function when one of these headaches strikes. The intense pain of a migraine has even been described as a ” vice squeezing my head.” Some individuals can become bedridden for days because of the migraine pain. It is also common for women to experience migraines on a monthly basis when their hormones fluctuate throughout their cycle.

Every person with migraines is unique, as are the triggers. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the cause of the migraine rather than simply treating the symptoms as they arise.

Like so many chronic conditions, migraines are related to the integrated systems of the body. The most common causes include:

• Hormonal imbalance. Many women with chronic migraines experience estrogen withdrawal headaches, typically around the beginning of their cycle.
• Food sensitivities. Migraines are actually one of the few conditions in traditional practice which have been associated with food triggers. The known food triggers can include nitrites, wine, caffeine and cheeses, however other food sensitivities unique to each individual can also cause flare up of headaches.
• Gut disturbance. Gut issues and imbalances that are related to vitamin deficiencies caused by lifestyle and stress are another cause of migraines. Deficiencies of essential vitamins such as vitamin B2, folate, vitamin D and magnesium as well as antioxidant deficiencies all lead to migraines. The goal is to identify the imbalances and nutrient deficiencies and focus on the healing the gut to allow absorption of nutrients.
• Stress. High stress can result in sleep problems in many people. Lack of sleep from stress and other causes is another contributor to the development of migraines.

Shakthi’s Focus- Long Term Prevention

The go-to treatment method for migraines in the traditional medical world is prescribing medication. Although medication can ease some of the symptoms of a migraine, it is not locating the root cause or preventing future occurrences.

At Shakthi Health & Wellness Center, our focus is on preventing these headaches and to halt the negative, and sometimes catastrophic, effects on your quality of life.

After identifying and eliminating the migraine triggers, we work on achieving nutrient balance, stress reduction, hormonal balance and addressing any sleep issues.

Acupuncture’s Amazing Effect on Preventing Migraines

Acupuncture has significant benefits on treating as well as preventing migraines. It is most beneficial when working in conjunction with nutrient balance and food trigger elimination. Acupuncture works on muscle tension by targeting nerves that send signals to the brain to then decrease the muscle tension. It also promotes relaxation which aids in better sleep. Adequate sleep is a crucial component in preventing migraines. Many patients have experienced a dramatic reduction in the amount of migraines when acupuncture therapy is combined with nutrient balance and other preventative measures.

What’s the Deal with OTC Migraine Medications?

For those who are prone to occasional bouts with migraines, over-the-counter medications such as Ibuprofen or even a cup of coffee (e.g. caffeine) can relieve the pain and symptoms.

However, for those individuals who suffer from frequent or cyclical migraines, relying solely on medication can actually cause a withdrawal effect. Medications such as Ibuprofen and Excedrin can cause withdrawal symptoms when taken too often. Caffeine, which is a main ingredient in Excedrin, can lessen the perceived effects of a migraine; but when discontinuing the medication, it causes a headache. Then it becomes a cycle that perpetuates. Eventually, more of the medication is needed to alleviate even the slightest of symptoms.

By working on nutrients, hormone balance and other preventative therapies, we are able to avoid prescribing over-the-counter or prescription migraine drugs. Migraines can be managed naturally when the body is in balance.

Find out how Shakthi Health & Wellness Center can help you live a more balanced life and alleviate chronic migraines.

Call us today at 301-703-5067 or book your appointment online.