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Top Homeopathic Medicines for Migraine

homeopathic medicines for migraine

Migraine is a disorder characterised by headache, specifically affecting one side of the head (i.e. unilateral side). Migraine headaches are mostly throbbing or pulsating in nature. Common accompanying symptoms are nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light, and noise. The migraine headache can be severe enough to disturb routine activities.

In some cases, some warning symptoms may be experienced before the onset of headache or with the headache, known as an ‘aura.’ The symptoms of aura may be related to vision like flashes of light or spots or different shapes before eyes and sometimes temporary loss of vision. Other symptoms of aura may relate to sensation. It includes tingling or prickling sensation on face, arms or legs. Sometimes difficulty in speech may also be a symptom.

Homeopathic Treatment 

Homeopathic remedies for migraine are reliable, and safe. They offer effective treatment for migraine. In fact, they work wonders for acute migraine attacks or even chronic migraine. These medicines for migraine are selected as per individual case. Individual symptoms are studied in detail and the appropriate medicine is prescribed. They identify and attack migraine at the root. Migraines with or without aura respond very well to natural homeopathic medicines.

Top Homeopathic medicines for migraine

The top-ranked homeopathic medicines for migraine are Belladonna, Glonoinum, Iris Versicolor, Epiphegus, and Nux Vomica.

1. Belladonna – Top Grade Medicine For Migraine

Though, there are numerous medicines available in homeopathy to manage migraine but Belladonna assumes top most position in that. I can bet this medicine to relieve migraine headache. It is brilliant medicine to help headaches with intense throbbing, pulsating type of pain.  With this, there is an extreme fullness in the head along with the sensation as if the head would burst. Light seemingly worsens the headache. Noise may get unbearable. In some cases, exposure to cold air may trigger a migraine episode. In others, a head bath with cold water can bring on migraine headaches. Manual pressing of the head is the only way one could get some relief.

2. Glonoinum – For Congestive Headache

Glonoinum though mentioned on second position but is as effective as Belladonna for treating migraine with fullness and congestion in head. Those needing it feel excessive blood rush into the head. The head feels very large, as if it would burst. Patients who suffer are seen holding their heads tightly. The eyeballs seem to protrude. Extreme heaviness in the head along with unbearable heat occurs. Uncovering the head relieves the headache. The migraine also gets better with sleep. However, walking may worsen the headache. Apart from congestive headaches, Glonoinum is a leading medicine administered for headache related to migraine triggered by sun exposure.

3. Iris Versicolor – For Migraine With Nausea, Vomiting Or Acidity

To manage headache with nausea, vomiting and acidity no medicine does a better job than Iris Versicolor. Though, some other medicines can be extremely useful but Iris Versicolor is first recommended choice. It is best suited when acid reflux leads to headaches. In cases needing it, vomiting of acidic, sour, bitter nature is observed. Bitter, acrid belching with heartburn (intense burning behind the sternum) and burning in the throat is well marked. Other than heartburn burning may be noted in any part of the alimentary canal. This medicine is also useful in case migraine begins with a blur before the eyes.

4. Epiphegus – For Migraine Triggered By Mental Or Physical Exertion

To treat migraine triggered by exertion (mental or physical), medicine Epiphegus is the best bet. It gives great results when mental or physical exertion sets off the migraine episode. It is used where the slightest deviation from routine work brings on a migraine attack. Although, it works for both-sided migraine, comparatively better results are seen when the headache occurs on the left-side. A peculiar accompanying symptom is increased saliva with constant inclination to spit.

5. Spigelia – Effective Medicine For Left-sided Migraine

Spigelia is undoubtedly the most effective medicine for migraine on the left-side. In most cases, the pain begins in the back of the head (occipital region), extends upwards and settles over the left eye. The pain is intense, throbbing and pulsating. A sensation of a tight band around the head is felt. Stooping seems to worsen the headache. Severe pain in the eyeballs may be an accompanying factor. Eye movement worsens this pain.

6. Sanguinaria Canadensis – For Migraine Of Right Side

Sanguinaria Canadensis works wonderfully well to settle down migraine on the right-side. The characteristic symptom to administer this medicine is pain which starts in the back of the head (occipital region), and then it goes up and sits right over the right eye. Lying down quietly in a dark room or sleep brings relief. This medicine can also be prescribed when the headache starts in the morning, gets intense during the day and lasts until sunset. Fasting (going without meals) often triggers a migraine headache in some, for which again this medicine is helpful. Sanguinaria Canadensis is also a significant medicine for migraine in women during menopause.

 7. Nux Vomica – For Migraine With Gastric Issues

Nux Vomica is the most well suited medicine for migraine with gastric troubles. Migraine associated with indigestion, gas, constipation shows great recovery with the use of Nux Vomica. It is often seen that migraine headache gets triggered by some particular food items. Nux Vomica is suitable when migraine triggers from intake of alcohol, coffee, and spicy food. The headache may be located in any part of the head. The person feels the need to press the head against something for relief.

8. Kali Phos – For Migraine Due To Stress

To relieve migraine from stress one can surely take this medicine without second thought. The unique indication for the use of Kali Phos is stress, tensions, and worry that leads to headache arising out of migraine. Such migraine related headaches are common among students who suffer school or college related stress. Exhaustion, and weakness usually accompany the migraine in such cases.

9. Natrum Muriaticum – For Migraine Before / During Menses (Menstrual Migraine)

Some women may experience migraine specifically before or during menstruation. For them, Natrum Muriaticum is the best prescription. This medicine works extremely well when migraine attack gets triggered before or during menstrual cycle. This medicines typically works if migraine headache feels like little hammers knocking on the brain. Another kind of headache that can be dealt wonderfully with this medicine is when the headache starts with sunrise, continues through the day and vanishes after sunset. This is popularly known as the “sunrise to sunset headache”. It is also the most suitable prescription for migraine headaches in school girls or in girls who are anaemic. It is also considered the best medicine where numbness or tingling is felt in the nose, tongue or lips before the migraine attack.

10. Gelsemium – When Headache Is Preceded By Temporary Vision Loss

Gelsemium is well indicated for cases in which temporary vision loss (blindness) precedes onset of migraine headache. Those who need it usually feel the pain in the back of the head (occipital region). A sensation of band around the head is also felt. There is heaviness on the eyelids. Excessive sensibility to noise before headache is yet another reason for its use. This medicine can also be given for headache on the one-side accompanied with dim vision or double vision.

11. Cyclamen – For Migraine With Visual Disturbances

Cyclamen is mostly administered for migraine attack preceded or accompanied by visual disturbance like flickering / sparks before eyes or dim vision. These visual symptoms that precede the migraine headache are referred to as visual aura. Cyclamen is also useful in case of migraine headaches which has an early morning onset. Shooting pain is experienced in the temporal region. Vertigo, especially while standing may accompany the headache.

12. Kali Bichrome – For Headache Preceded by Blurred Vision Or Temporary Loss Of Vision

It is a very beneficial medicine in managing headache preceded by blurred vision or temporary vision loss. The headache occurs in small spots, and is marked over the eyebrows. Nausea, and vomiting may accompany other symptoms.

Four Stages & Symptoms of Migraine

There are four stages of a migraine attack:

1.Prodrome: It is the first stage lasting for a few hours to a few days. In this, the sufferer notices slight change that signals that a migraine attack is about to set in.These are noticed in 60 per cent of the cases.

2. Aura: It is the second stage lasting anything between five minutes to 60 minutes. This appears before or even when the headache has set in.

3. Headache (migraine attack): It remains for a minimum of four hours and extends up to as many as three days.

4. Postdrome:It occurs after the end of migraine attack, and may last for one to two days.

Each stage has its own symptoms as mentioned below:

1. Prodrome symptoms

Mood changes, difficult concentration, irritability, increased frequency of urination, food cravings, neck stiffness, constipation or diarrhoea, difficulty in speaking/sleeping

2. Aura symptoms

In this, symptoms related to nervous system appear which are reversible. The symptoms of this stage might include visual disturbances (like experiencing flashes of light or bright spots or zig-zag lines or different shapes popping up before one’s eyes, vision loss). It may also include problem in speaking, needle-pins being felt in the arm or leg, weakness in the face or on either side of the body. In some cases, changes in smell or taste also occur. Besides sensation, one feels as if the world around the person is spinning.

3. Headache (Migraine attack)

In this stage, a throbbing pulsating type of pain appears mostly on one side of head. In some cases, headache may occur on both sides of head. Besides, nausea and vomiting can occur. Additionally, sensitivity to sound, light, smell can be experienced.

4. Postdrome (Migraine Hangover) Symptoms

After the migraine attack is over, fatigue, confusion appears. Some people feel extremely happy.

Types Of Migraine

There are multiple types of migraine. Some of these are as explained below:

1. Migraine without headache (Silent migraine): only aura symptoms occur in this type and no headache appears.

2. Migraine without aura:In this headache, starts without any aura symptoms

3. Migraine with aura (Classic migraine): An aura is experienced followed by headache

4. Retinal / Ocular migraine:There occurs temporary vision loss that can be partial or complete in one eye attended with dull pain behind eye that can spread to other parts of the head.

5. Hemiplegic migraine:Temporary sensory or other nervous system related symptoms may occur like numbness or weakness on one side of body, sometimes loss of sensation and tingling in one side of body

6. Migraine with brainstem aura (basilar migraine): Before headache, there occurs slurred speech, vertigo, loss of balance, double vision and ringing noises in ears

7. Menstrual migraine: It happens in women before or during menses and may occur every month.

8. Abdominal migraine: In this stomach pain occurs with nausea and vomiting, usually seen in children. With time, it can shift to classic migraine.

9. Status migrainosus: When migraine lasts for more than 3 days. It is a severe type of migraine

10. Chronic migraine:when migraine occurs for fifteen days minimum in one month.

Causes

1. Migraines are believed to arise due to brain changes affecting nerve communication,and are also thought to originate from brain changes affecting blood vessels.Some people believe that both of these factors play a role. These changes send pain signals to brain.

2. Other than these, decrease in the level of brain chemical serotonin might be a causing factor, the research for confirmation of the role of serotonin in migraines is still ongoing.

3. Genetics is also thought to play a role in migraine as persons having migraine often have some family member suffering from migraine. About two third of the migraine cases have a family history of migraine. If a person has one parent with migraine then he / she has 50% chance to suffer same. Having both parent suffering from migraine increase risk to 75% in their children

4. In some cases psychological conditions like anxiety, depression, are linked with migraine

Trigger Factors

Some of the trigger factors behind migraine are:

1. Stress

2. Bright light, flashing lights, sunlight, light from television; loud noise; strong smell.

3. Eating processed foods, cheese, chocolates, pickled food or food having monosodium glutamate (MSG), skipping meals, taking excessive alcohol and caffeine

4. Loss of sleep or excessive sleep

5. Intense exertion, tiredness

6. Temperature changes

7. Certain medicines like vasodilators (like nitroglycerine) and oral contraceptive pills

8. In women, migraines can occur from hormonal changes like before or during menses, pregnancy and menopause

Lifestyle Management

1. Massaging scalp can be helpful to relieve headache

2. Rest in quiet, dark room can relieve attack

3. To manage stress, opt for yoga and meditation to calm mind and prevent migraine attack

4. Find out factors that trigger your migraine and try to avoid them

5. Take plenty of fluids and do not skip meals

6. Take enough sleep

7. Avoid food stuff that triggers your migraine

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Top Five Homeopathic Medicines to Treat Migraine – Part 2

Top Five Homeopathic Medicines to Treat Migraine – Part 2

Epiphegus for migraine headaches

A lesser known drug for migraine but does wonders if symptoms match. I can personally vouch for Epiphegus .I treated my cluster headaches with Epiphegus which would settle over my left eye. Epiphegus is very effective for cluster headaches. This drug has more affinity for left side. It is indicated when headaches come on with MENTAL EXERTION or MENTAL TIRE. Headaches that are triggered by going out in the sun or, shopping or any deviation from normal routine. Mainly headaches that are caused by overwork or fatigue, Epiphegus does wonders in curing them miraculously.

Nux Vomica for gastric Migraines

Gastric migraine is a new terminology that is being used in modern medicine nowadays. It refers to a condition where the headaches are accompanied by gastric disturbances. The gastric disturbances that are usually accompanied with migraine headaches are constipation (this could be in the form of ineffectual desire to pass stool; or not getting complete evacuations) bloating of abdomen or feeling of gas; or a feeling or an inability to release gas. Nux is also used for headaches that brought on by eating fatty, rich fried food. Alcohol consumption when leads to triggering of headaches are effectively treated with Nux Vomica.

Medicines mentioned here are for information purpose only. Kindly do not self medicate.

Top Five Homeopathic Medicines to treat Migraine part 1

 

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WHY MIGRAINE OCCURS

Why migraine occurs

Migraines, known to be one of the most common ailments of the nervous system, cause frequent headaches and at times other neurological symptoms such as tingling, numbness or weakness on one side of the body. However, initial symptom still remains occurrence of an aura (intuition that an attack is about to happen), such as a visual disturbance like bright spots or zigzag lines appearing before the eyes.

Now how does an aura begin? Well, it starts with temporary contraction of the vessels supplying blood to the brain. As soon as these vessels, tightly constricted till then, open up and a gush of blood flows through to the brain, a severe headache, mostly one-sided, follows. Though all migraines may not follow the same pattern, important is that these headaches occur after a person has passed through, rather than during, the times of stress, for example after an examination or some important interview.

FUNCTIONAL DISORDERS

Even as details about migraines are yet to be known, researchers point out that these severe headaches are caused by functional changes in the trigeminal nerve system, a major pain pathway in the nervous system. It may even result out of the imbalances in brain chemicals, including serotonin. The levels of serotonin, which plays a regulatory role for the pain messages passing through this pathway, drop during a headache. This, as per researchers, causes the trigeminal nerve to release substances called neuropeptides, which travel to the brain’s outer covering, known as meninges. Once it reaches there, blood vessels become enlarged and inflamed, resulting in headache.

COMMON TRIGGERS

Migraine may result out of several causes, but the most common triggers that have been witnessed include hormonal changes, stress, intake of certain foods, sensory stimuli, changes in the sleep-wake schedule and intense physical exertion, including sexual activity. On the hormonal front, the exact relationship between them (hormones) and headaches is not clear yet, but researchers believe fluctuations in estrogen trigger headaches in many women, who have history of migraines. Females often report headaches immediately before or during their periods, and this corresponds to a major drop in estrogen. Others have an increased tendency to develop migraines during pregnancy or menopause. Hormonal medications, such as contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy, may also worsen migraines.

Then, stress at work or home can instigate migraines. Overuse of caffeine; certain seasonings; fermented, pickled, marinated, canned or processed food; skipping meals or even fasting can trigger migraines. Alcohol, especially beer and red wine, too can be a cause. Bright light and sun glare can produce head pain. So can unusual smells, including scents such as perfume and flowers, and unpleasant odours, such as paint thinner and secondhand smoke. Besides, environmental changes like in weather, season, altitude level or barometric pressure and certain medications can also aggravate migraines.

TIME FOR MEDICAL ADVICE?

Despite being a chronic disorder, migraines often remain undiagnosed, and as a result untreated. As soon as a a person witnesses the first symptoms of a severe headache, he or she should track the attacks and contact a doctor. If one has a history of headaches, advice from the doctor becomes even the more compulsory. One should definitely contact a medical practitioner if an abrupt, severe headache like a thunderclap occurs; if headache with fever, stiff neck, rash, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness or trouble speaking is there; headache after a head injury persists or a chronic headache that gets worse after coughing, exertion, straining or a sudden movement attacks a person.

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Top 4 Homeopathic Medicines for Headaches

Headache is a prevalent medical complaint, and everyone tends to get it at one or other point of their life. There are more than 100 types of headache. Among them, the most common types are migraine, tension headache, sinus headache, and cluster headache.      homeopathic medicines for headache

A person may get a headache in only one region of the head or more than one region. The various regions include frontal (forehead), temples (sides of the head), vertex (top of head) and occiput (back of the head). In some cases, the pain starts from a particular area of the head and then radiate to another area. Homeopathic mode of treatment carries a great scope to treat cases of headache. Homeopathic medicines are highly effective for headache arising from various causes. Headache both of recent as well as long duration can be treated wonderfully with homeopathic medicines. Homeopathic medicines bring recovery in headache cases by aiming to treat the root cause behind it. Homeopathic medicines for treating headache are of natural origin and hence are highly safe to use among persons of all age groups. The top grade homeopathic medicines for treating headache include – Belladonna, Glonoinum and Natrum Mur.

Top grade Homeopathic Medicines for Headache

1. Belladonna – Top Ranked Medicine for Headache

Belladonna is a top listed medicine for headache. It is a natural medicine prepared from a plant named Deadly Nightshade of the natural order Solanaceae. For using this medicine, the nature of pain in the head remains throbbing and pulsating type. Fullness in the head may also be felt. Pains come suddenly and tend to cease suddenly. From headache in all locations of the head, pain is most marked on sides of the head (temporal region). Along with headache, redness of eyes and face attend. Headache triggered from light is also indicative to use Belladonna. Apart from this headache that is triggered by the slight noise or exposure to cold air are also treated well with this medicine. Hard pressure over the head, tight bandaging or wrapping up head relieves the pain in most cases needing Belladonna.

Key Indications:

– Throbbing and pulsating type of headache
– Headache triggered from light, from slight noise or from exposure to cold air
– Headache better from hard pressure over the head, tight bandaging or wrapping up head

2. Glonoinum – For Congestive Headache

Glonoinum is the next highly effective medicine for headache. It is mainly helpful in case of a headache that is congestive in nature. There is a sensation as if all the blood has surged to head with extreme congestion. There is also a constriction in vessels of the head. Throbbing, bursting sensation in head appears. The person feels every pulsation in the head. Extreme fullness in the head is felt with sensation as if it would burst. Great heat is felt in the head with severe pains in the forehead, and throbbing in temples. Vertigo may arise along with flashes of heat to the face, head, and throbbing headache. The face appears red, flushed with heat. Headache may get worse from motion or jar. In most cases needing Glonoinum, the headache is relieved by sleep. Glonoinum is a top listed homeopathic medicine for headache arising from sun exposure. Its use is highly recommended for summer headaches.

Key indications:

-Congestive headaches

– Throbbing, bursting, pulsating headache

– Sun headache and summer headaches

3. Natrum Mur – Another Excellent Medicine for Headache

Natrum Mur is next well-indicated medicine for treating headache. It is a highly suitable medicine for headache from sun exposure. Headache from sunrise till sunset is attended well with this medicine. Natrum Mur is also very beneficial medicine for headache in females around the menstrual cycle. The female needing this remedy have headaches that appear immediately before/after menses or during menses. The nature of headache is throbbing in nature usually with heat in the head. In some cases, there is a sensation as if many little hammers are knocking in the head. Headache is most marked in the forehead. Headache appearing from eye strain, reading is also indicative to use this medicine. Natrum Mur is also useful for headache where profuse watering from eyes or disturbed vision attends. Headache; beginning with blindness or zig-zag dazzling, like lightning in eyes, is another characteristic feature to use this medicine.

Key indications:

-Headache from sun exposure

– Headache in females worse around menstrual cycle

– Headache from eye strain

Other Important Medicines

1. Iris Versicolor – Natural Remedy for Migraine

Iris Versicolor is prepared from a plant commonly named Blue Flag of the family Iridaceae. It is an excellent medicine for migraine that gets triggered by acidity calls for its use. The key features are headache, nausea, vomiting and burning in the gastric tract. The headache may be dull, shooting, and throbbing in nature. Vomiting is mainly bitter, sour in nature. Other symptoms that may appear includes blurring of vision prior headache, vertigo and constriction in the scalp.

2. Kali Phos – For Tension/Stress Headache

Kali Phos is a very useful medicine for tension/stress headache. To use Kali Phos the symptoms to look for includes nervous headache, a sensation of weight in the back of the head, and weakness. Pain locates across the forehead and into both temples. The sensation of a band around forehead just above eyes is frequently felt. Sensitivity to noise also attends headache. Tiredness is also well marked with a headache. Stress headache triggered by stress, anxiety and emotional disturbances is a key pointer to use this medicine. The individuals needing Kali Phos are anxious, sad and full of cares, worries. Kali Phos is also well indicated for a headache that arises from mental exertion as in students.

3. Cedron – For Cluster Headache

Cedron is a prominent medicine for treating a cluster headache. To use Cedron the main symptom to look forward is pain around the eye (periorbital pain). The pain is severe, shooting in nature. Periodicity in the occurrence of this pain is well marked. The person needing this medicine tend to get this pain at a particular hour of the day. The pain around the eye may radiate to the temples or back of the head or into the ear. Along with headache watering from eyes or burning in the eyes may also be present.

4. Kali Bichromicum – For Sinus Headache

Kali Bichromicum is a very effective medicine for treating a sinus headache. The person needing this remedy has pain in the forehead above the eyes, with stoppage of the nose. The pain may be dull, or throbbing in nature. Frontal sinus feels congested. Another characteristic feature is mucus dripping in the throat from the posterior nares. In some cases vertigo, shooting pain at the root of the nose and thick yellowish-greenish discharge from nose also appears.

5. Sanguinaria Canadensis – For Headache on the Right Side

Sanguinaria Canadensis is a prominent medicine for right sided headache. This medicine is prepared from a plant commonly named bloodroot of the natural order Papaveraceae. Pain starting from the back of the head and then ascending up and locating over the right eye is the characteristic feature to use this medicine. Sleep or lying quietly in a dark room relieves the pain in most cases needing this remedy. Headache arising from fasting are also treated well with Sanguinaria Canadensis.

6. Spigelia Anthelmintica – For Left-Sided Headache

Spigelia Anthelmintica is prepared from a plant named Pinkroot of the family Loganiaceae. It is a useful medicine for left-sided headache. Headache located over the left side temporal region, forehead and eyes is indicative symptoms of this medicine. Most persons needing this remedy have pain that begins in the back of the head, extends up and settle over the left eye. The nature of pain is violent, throbbing and pulsating type. Stooping may worsen headache in some cases. Pain in eyeballs may attend the above symptoms that are seen to be aggravated from eye movement.

7. Nux Vomica – For Headache Arising from Gastric Issues

Nux Vomica is a wonderful medicine for headache arising from gastric issues. The headache may be located in the forehead, top of head or back of the head. Along with headache, constipation is present with ineffectual urging for stool. The stool remains unsatisfactory even after passing it several times a day. Other symptoms that may appear with above include flatulence, rumbling, gurgling in the abdomen. Nux Vomica is also indicated for headache from taking alcohol.

8. Carbo Veg – For Headache from Excessive Flatulence/Gas

Carbo Veg is an effective medicine for headache from excessive flatulence/gas. In addition to headache, there is bloating in abdomen especially upper abdomen. Belching (putrid, sour in nature), and heartburn attends. In some persons, water brash may also appear.

9. Epiphegus – For Headache from Exertion

Epiphegus is a helpful medicine for headache from exertion, mental/physical exhaustion. Epiphegus is prepared from a plant named beech drop of family Orobanchaceae. Pain usually is felt on sides of the head (temporal region). The nature of pain is the pressing type. The pain may radiate to the back of the head. A unique attending feature is increased saliva with constant spitting with headaches.

10. Glonoinum – For Headache from Exposure to Sun

Glonoinum is a beneficial medicine for headache arising from sun exposure. Following sun exposure there appears throbbing, bursting, congestive headaches. Blood seems to surge to head with extreme congestion and fullness. Violent pulsation in the head is felt. There appear a sensation as if the head would burst. Great heat is felt in the head along with pain. The face also appears red, flushed with heat. Vertigo may also accompany headache in most cases.

11. Ruta Graveolens – For Headache from Eyestrain

Ruta Graveolens is a highly valuable medicine headache arising from eyestrain. This medicine is prepared from a plant commonly named as ‘garden rue’ belonging to natural order Rutaceae. The headache appears in the forehead from eye strain arising from excessive use of eyes in reading, sewing etc. The nature of pain may be aching, pulsating or stitching in nature. Heat in the eyes may also be present along with the above symptoms.

12. Gelsemium Sempervirens – For Headache in Back of Head (Occiput)

Gelsemium Sempervirens is a natural medicine prepared from plant yellow jasmine of the natural order Loganiaceae. This medicine works well in headache located in the back of the head (occiput). In some cases, diplopia (double vision), and dim vision may be present. Pressure may relieve the headache. Gelsemium Sempervirens is also well indicated for a headache that appears from emotional causes.

13. Silicea – For Headache when Pain from Nape of Neck Extends to Head

Silicea is a well-indicated medicine for headache where pain commences in the nape of neck and base of the brain and extends up and over the whole head. A cold sensation may be felt in the head. Wrapping head warmly may relieve. Silicea is also indicated for chronic morning headaches. Headache that gets worse from mental exertion; excessive study, cold air exposure are also indicative to use Silicea.

14. Sepia Succus – For Headache during Menopause

Sepia Succus is a beneficial medicine for headache during menopause. The headache appears in terrible shocks that make the person scream. Nausea, vomiting may attend headache. In few cases, a cold sensation on the top of the head may be felt. Sepia Succus is also suitable homeopathic medicine for females that have hair fall in addition to headache during menopausal period.

15. Natrum Mur – For Headache Worsening around Menstrual Cycle

Natrum Mur is a prominent medicine for headache in females worsening around the menstrual cycle. Headache locates over the vertex (top of head) and over the eyes. A sensation as of thousand little hammers knocking on the brain may be felt. Nausea, vomiting may attend. In some cases, dim vision, or zig-zag dazzling, like lightning in eyes may appear before a headache.

16. Ipecac – For Headache accompanied by Nausea and Vomiting

Ipecac is a medicine made from a plant named Ipecacuanha of the family Rubiaceae. Headache accompanied by nausea and vomiting is a characteristic feature to use this medicine. The individuals needing this medicine may have a headache in the back, top or front of the head. The nature of the pain may be throbbing or stinging or aching in nature. Along with headache nausea is constant. Vomiting may consist of watery fluid or greenish color.

17. Cocculus Indicus – For Headache from Loss of Sleep

Cocculus Indicus is prepared from a plant called Indian Cockle of family Menispermacae. It is a suitable medicine for headache from loss of sleep. The headache is attended with nausea and vomiting in most cases. Light and noise are unbearable during headache in persons needing Cocculus Indicus.

18. Phosphorus – For Headache Triggered by Strong Odors

Phosphorus is a significant remedy triggered by strong odors. The nature of pain is most times throbbing, pulsating, pressing type. The head feels congested. Heat on the top of the head may also attend. In a few cases, sweating on the head is also present. Dimness of sight may be there before the onset of a headache.

Causes of headache

The headaches may arise either from an underlying medical condition or without an underlying medical condition. Depending upon this factor headaches are classified into primary and secondary headaches.

1. Primary headaches

Primary headaches arise from overactivity of structures in the head that are sensitive to pain. Changes in chemical activity in the brain also play a role in primary headaches. Primary headaches do not relate to any separate underlying medical condition. Following are the common type of primary headaches:

-tension / stress headache

– migraine

– cluster headache

2. Secondary headaches

Secondary headaches are the ones that arise from an underlying medical condition. Secondary headaches are often a symptom of a disease. The reasons for secondary headaches include

– sinusitis / sinus infection

– high Blood pressure

– Cervicogenic headache (headaches caused by problems with the nerves, bones, or muscles in the cervical spine (neck).

– gastrointestinal disorders

– dental complaints

– temporal arteritis

– post-traumatic (head injury)

– influenza

– Alcohol-induced hangover

-meningitis, encephalitis

Common Types of Headache

1. Migraine

Migraine refers to headache causes throbbing, pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head. The pain is severe and is often attended with nausea and vomiting. The cause of migraine is not clearly understood. However, genetics and environmental factors tend to play a role in migraine. There are many well-known triggers for the migraine attack. The major ones include stress, bright lights, noises, food (like fatty food, chocolates, caffeinated drinks, marinated food, cheese, fermented food), smoking, alcohol intake, MSG (monosodium glutamate), sun exposure, loss of sleep, strong odors, and tiredness. In addition to these hormonal fluctuations during menses or during menopause or during pregnancy can also trigger a migraine.

The symptoms of migraine include one-sided headache. The major attending features include nausea, vomiting, aversion to light, noise, and talking. Some people experience few symptoms before the migraine attack appears attack by which they can predict that a migraine attack is about to come (aura). These symptoms include – seeing flashes of light, zig zags before eyes, dim vision, blurring of vision, numbness/tingling/pin needle sensation in the arms or around the mouth.

2. Cluster Headache

Cluster headache is a severe headache in which pain locates around one eye (periorbital headache). The pain comes in clusters (group) during which one or more than one episodes of headache appears daily. The headache during the cluster period mostly appears at precisely the same hour each day. The duration of each episode of headache ranges from 15 minutes to 3 hrs. The cluster period lasts for weeks or months. This cluster period is followed by a period of remission during which no headaches appear at all. The remission period varies from months to years together. The reason behind a cluster headache is yet not known. A family history of cluster headache puts a person at risk.

Symptoms of cluster headache include one-sided pain located in or around the eye. This pain may radiate to head, face or neck. Watering from the eye, swelling of eye, redness of the eye, nasal congestion, nasal discharge, drooping of eyelids of the same side of pain are few accompanying symptoms.

3. Tension headache

In tension headache, diffuse dull pain in head appears which is described as a tight band like feeling around the head. The reason behind the tension headache is not well known yet. However, contraction of muscles of head, scalp, and neck are thought to play a role in tension headache. There are certain trigger factors that can lead to muscle contraction and give rise to a tension headache. Few trigger factors include stress, anxiety, fatigue, cold, sinus infection, sun exposure, poor posture while sleeping/sitting, eyestrain. Symptoms of a tension headache include dull, aching pain in the whole head with a tight band-like sensation around the head. Along with this pain in the neck, shoulders may attend. Muscles in neck, scalp, and shoulders also feel tightened. Head pain seems to get worse as the day passes. Tiredness usually attends the above symptoms.

4. Sinus headache

Sinus headaches appear from the congestion of the paranasal sinus that locates behind your eyes, nose, cheeks, and forehead. Sinus headaches most commonly appear when sinus becomes inflamed from allergies or from infection. In sinus headache, a constant pain/pressure in the forehead or the bridge of your nose is felt. The pain usually gets worse on moving head suddenly or coughing or leaning forward. Few symptoms tend to attend which includes a runny nose or green/ yellow nasal discharges, stuffy nose, decreased sense of smell facial swelling, a pressure in ears, feverish feeling.

Factors That Trigger Headaches

-Stress, anxiety
– fatigue
– certain food substances that includes caffeinated drinks, cheese, fermented food, processed food, nuts, and marinated food
– alcohol
– Eyestrain
– too much or too less sleep
-sun exposure
– skipping meals
– hormonal changes
– Overuse of analgesics (pain killers)
– Bright light
– Loud sounds
– Strong smells

Investigations

Most cases of headache usually don’t require any investigation. For e.g., tension headache, migraine headache cluster headache are diagnosed based on clinical symptoms. While in case a doctor suspects sinusitis as a reason behind the headache he may recommend X-ray of the paranasal sinus. If other causes like a brain tumor, meningitis, encephalitis, a clot in the brain, are suspected then investigations including CT or MRI scan are recommended.

How serious is a headache?

Most cases of headache are mild, and usually not a reason for big concern. They tend to resolve well in time. However, in some cases, the reason behind headache may be a serious condition like meningitis, critically high blood pressure, ruptured aneurysm, brain tumor. So every case of headache should be thoroughly analyzed to rule out any serious condition in the very beginning.

Are there any lifestyle changes that can help manage a headache?

Yes, following are some measures that are helpful to manage headache.

1. Managing stress

2. Avoiding smoking and alcohol.

3. Avoiding food substances like caffeinated drinks, cheese, fermented food, processed food, nuts, and marinated food.

4. Getting adequate sleep every day.

5. Taking plenty of fluids

6. Taking steam in cases of sinus headache

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

MIGRAINE TREATMENT WITH HOMEOPATHY

Migraine Treatment

migraine treatment with homeopathy…by Dr. Vikas Sharma

I am a 30-year-old homemaker, suffering from recurrent headaches for the last six years. The headache begins with disturbance in vision. I start seeing two objects instead of one, floating patterns, flashing lights, which disappear after some time. This is followed by a severe headache lasting hours and even days. The headache usually starts from the back of the head and neck and spreads to the entire head. These attacks occur once or twice a week-and are accompanied by extreme weakness. The headaches are more frequent when my sleep pattern is disturbed. The CT Scan and MRI and complete eye check-up, have detected no abnormality. Please suggest a homeopathic medicine.

MRS TINA, Sector 16, Chandigarh.

These are the symptoms of ‘Classic Migraine’. Classic migraine headaches refer to those migraine headaches which are preceded by a visual disturbance called an aura. This type of migraine is different from common migraines (no ‘warning or aura) or complicated migraines (associated with non-visual neurological symptoms such as disturbances in speech, movement, or sensory perception). Migraine is a common kind of chronic headache, affecting about six out of hundred people. Migraines most commonly occur in women between the ages of 10 and 46 years. In some cases, migraines appear to run in families. Classical migraine accounts for about one-sixth of all migraines. The symptoms of migraine may occur as a result of changes in blood vessel diameter. Initially, constriction or spasm of blood vessels may decrease blood flow to these areas of brain. This can result in neurological symptoms other than headaches, including., visual changes, difficulty in speaking, weakness or numbness in one part of the body, tingling sensations etc. Minutes to hours later, the blood vessels enlarge, resulting in severe headache. Classical migraine specifically refers to those migraines preceded by visual symptoms.

Migraine treatment with Homeopathic medicines Gelsemium, Cyclamen, Irish, Natrum Mur, Kali Bichrome are very effective in treating classic migraine. As you have mentioned diplopia (seeing two objects instead of one) as one of your symptoms, you may take Gelsemium 200, one dose a week, a for a period of one month. There are clear hereditary factors and environmental triggers contributing to migraine causing abnormal blood vessel caliber and inflammation, resulting in the ensuing symptoms. Attacks of migraine headache may be associated with allergic reactions, bright lights, loud noises, physical or mental stress, changes in sleep patterns, smoking or exposure to tobacco smoke, missed meals, alcohol, caffeine, hormonal fluctuations (related to menstrual cycle or use of birth control pills), and other conditions. Even in the absence of a clear factor that provokes migraine attacks, changes in lifestyle are useful. Many patients may benefit from a regular sleep schedule and exercise. Avoiding tobacco, caffeine, and alcohol also proves beneficial.

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Migraine headaches treatment

I am talking of a a little heard medicine in homeopathy ‘Epiphegus’ . It has a wonderful role in treating migraine headaches. I have personally seen a great number of chronic migraines being treated with this medicine within months.the key indication for the use of epiphegus are headaches that are brought on by least exertion wether mental or physical; Any deviation from normal routine can start a headache. It is more used when  left side is more predominantly affected. A very important symptom that i have noticed in patients who become better with Epiphegus is that they have a sudden strong urge to eat before the headache starts.

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Migraine and its Homeopathic Treatment

 Migraine -get rid of it

131570282_513262e8fd_m  Migraine headaches are associated with very severe pain in the head This head ache occurs in an unpredictable repetitive pattern. The severity of pain and the unpredictability associated with them can make life very miserable and disabling. Migraines are much more common in women and are more common between the ages of 10 and 46.

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