I suffer from frequent headaches - with the pain mainly across the front of my head. Could I be developing migraine? What can I do to ease the pain?
Conventional remedy
Headaches can occur for a variety of reasons. Tension headaches produce a dull ache or tightness in the forehead, scalp or neck. They can occur as the result of mental or physical stress. Excessive worry, long periods of work with few relaxation periods, working with a VDU and poor lighting can all contribute. They usually respond to standard pain killers and changes in lifestyle to combat physical or psychological stresses. Eye problems can also result in headaches.
Migraine affects one in 10 people, more commonly women, and is often worse between the ages of 20 and 50. These headaches are caused by dilation or swelling of the blood vessels in the scalp. The increased blood pumps through the vessels, causing a throbbing sensation. The symptoms usually affect one half of the head, with the pain often preceded by changes in vision, nausea and vomiting.
Triggers can include tension, fatigue, overwork, hormonal changes, bright lights, strong perfume or unpleasant smells. Cheese, chocolate, red wine and excessive noise can also precipitate an attack. Treatment with painkillers, lying in a darkened room and relaxing should help to ease the symptoms. Anti-migraine medication taken at the first hint of an attack can cut the episode short. If your headache does not respond to these measures, you should see your doctor for a full assessment.
Dr Muiris Houston
Alternative remedy
Migraine headaches are typically one-sided. Headaches, in terms of traditional Chinese medicine are a manifestation of a root problem or disharmony in some other area of the body. The significance of the location of the headache is very important. Frontal headaches can be associated with the stomach channel. A dull pain could mean weak stomach energy. Excessive fasting and irregular intake of food can cause this type of headache. Eat regular meals and avoid eating late at night. Acupuncture treatment for this condition will involve needling points on the lower legs and/or the abdomen.
A headache that is sharp and gets worse when you lie down, can indicate an "excess condition". This type of headache is associated with a sinus condition, phlegm blocking the channels in the head. Dietary advice is to avoid foods that create phlegm such as dairy produce, bananas and chocolate. Eat onions, watercress and garlic to help clear phlegm. Regular eating patterns and regular exercise will contribute significantly to your recovery from these types of headaches. Acupuncture treatment will involve using points that will clear the phlegm and move the flow of energy to the head thus alleviating the headaches.
Consult with a registered acupuncturist for a full diagnosis and to eliminate the possibility of a more serious cause for the headaches.
Celine O'Connor Casey
- Celine O'Connor Casey is an acupuncturist and secretary of the Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Organisation. Tel: 01-4640444 or 061-382151