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Migraine - what is it?
A huge portion of the population, males and females alike suffer from quite painful, very uncomfortable and sometimes even debilitating headaches which are accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, noise, and smell.
This particular type of headache is called “migraine”.
These throbbing headaches usually occur on only one side of the head, although the pain can shift from one side of the head to the other, or can occur on both sides at the same time.
A migraine typically lasts 4 to 24 hours but in some cases can last up to 3 days. Some people have symptoms that occur before a headache starts, such as visual disturbances (also known as “aura”).
Most people know how difficult it is to cope with a “normal” headache and for those who suffer from “full blown” migraines life can be a struggle. Western medicine treatment usually includes long-term medication in order to prevent a migraine from occurring or to stop a migraine once it begins.
For most migraine sufferers there is no recognizable pattern to the onset - it can start anywhere, at any time.
In some cases, women notice a higher incidence of migraines around certain stages of the menstrual cycle because of the hormonal changes. Migraine is a condition very particular to the individual and therefore the treatment must reflect this.
Benefits of TCM treatment
Several medical studies have been published showing that TCM (particularly acupuncture) is very effective for migraine prevention.
The TCM treatment is aimed at resolving the underlying problems that may be the trigger or the contributing factor to the migraine occurrence. Prevention is always the key factor with TCM, but for those visiting the clinic during the migraine attack, they will find that especially acupuncture can have effective results for reducing the pain.
TCM treats migraines by relieving the pain and tension, therefore relaxing the body and the muscles so that the energy (Qì) and Blood (Xuè) can flow freely.
☰ Provides effective pain relief
☱ Harmonizes blood circulation in the body - particularly the head
☲ Alleviates nausea
☳ Improves the quality of life
☴ Decreases the use of medication
☵ Has no side effects
☶ Reduces “sick days” off work / school
☷ Long lasting results
A word of caution
Even though sometimes TCM treatments can provide somewhat “miraculous” results, no one should expect that only one treatment will resolve a serious condition such as migraine.
If you are a migraine sufferer, a suitable treatment plan needs to be discussed with your practitioner to meet your specific needs.
How Healthy Are you? - TV3
Blind Faith Productions aims to deliver a groundbreaking new lifestyle series that will encourage Irish people to take responsibility for their own health and wellbeing in a fun and entertaining manner.
With this aim in mind, “How Healthy Are You?” was born and with the support of their sponsor (Kelkin) they have produced the show that will be on TV3's Autumn schedule, presented by Elsa Jones.
TCM for the treatment of migraines was featured in episode 4 when the crew visited Sandro’s clinic to see a treatment for a migraine sufferer. For more information, please visit the program's websitewww.youhealthyareyou.ie
Migraine Association of Ireland
The The Migraine Association of Ireland (MAI) is a registered charity dedicated to improving the quality of life for the 12-15% of our population who suffer from migraine.
The aim of the MAI is to provide information, reassurance and support to migraine sufferers and those with any other headache disorders.
Information is also on offer to the families and friends of migraineurs and to medical professionals.
The MAI also raises awareness of migraine throughout Irish society in general, as well as in the health professional sector.
Callsave Helpline: 1850 200 378
Specialist Nurse Advice Line: 01 797 9848
E-mail: info@migraine.ie