Headaches & Migraines can be treated with:
- Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine
- Ozone Therapy
- Massage Therapy
- LDI
- Iasis
- ART for testing
Headaches
Headaches are characterized by unpleasant pain and pressure within the head. The pain can either be mild or severe and can occur on both sides of your head. A headache can last for as little as 30 minutes or as long as one week. Tension headache is the most common type of headache and is often caused by anxiety, stress, and muscle strain. Other types of headaches include thunderclap, Chiari, sinus, and cluster headaches.
Migraines
Migraines are severe headaches that come with other symptoms such as nausea, pain in the eyes, temporary loss of vision, vomiting, and pain in the temples. Migraines are classified into two categories: 1) those with aura; and 2) those without aura. Migraines with aura are those that start with visual sensations before you experience a migraine. The sensations can last for 10-30 minutes.
The symptoms of migraines include:
- Depression
- Constipation
- Stiffness in the neck
- Irritation
- Yawning frequently
- Uncommon food cravings
The common triggers of migraines include:
- Use of contraceptives
- Hormonal changes
- Emotional anxiety
- Certain foods
- Use of alcohol
- Menopause and many more.
Scientists believe that migraines are caused by changes in the flow of blood into the brain. A migraine can start when an overactive nerve cell sends signals to activate the trigeminal nerve. This is the nerve that sends sensations to the head. The activation also leads to the release of serotonin hormones and calcitonin gene-related peptides. CGRP causes blood vessels to swell in the brain which results in pain and inflammation.
Naturopathic treatment of Headaches & Migraines
Stay Hydrated
Ensuring that you drink a sufficient amount of water throughout the day can help reduce the chances of headaches and migraines. Both conditions occur due to inflammation which is associated with chronic dehydration.
Addressing food reactions
Reactions to various foods can cause headaches. The type of foods that are linked to causing headaches should be eliminated from one's diet. Among the common foods that can cause migraines are wheat, chocolate, cow’s milk, benzoic acid, tomato, rye, yellow food dye, and oranges among others. Cheese, wine, and beer can also induce migraines because they contain vasoactive compounds and histamines that make blood vessels dilate. Foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids are good for fighting inflammation. Flaxseed is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Buckwheat also contains a flavonoid called rutin which is a phytochemical that contains high levels of antioxidants. Buckwheat can help reduce the frequency of headaches and migraines.
Use of natural oils
Natural oils such as lavender, peppermint, and basil can help relieve headaches and migraines. Lavender oil reduces stress and calms you down. It also regulates levels of serotonin, thus decreasing headache pain. Peppermint helps with tension headaches by increasing the amount of oxygen in the blood and basil oil fights off tension and muscle pain.
Reflexology and Scalp Massage
DIY scalp massage can aid reduce migraine pain. Reflexology or massaging reflex points on both hands and feet is also helpful in fighting headaches and migraines. Massage promotes the circulation of blood to the brain which can help ease inflammation and pain.
Chiropractic adjustments
Chiropractic adjustments can treat severe headaches and migraines. Such adjustments include stretching, moving, and manipulation of the spine. This treatment is critical in case you suffer from chronic migraines. Apart from healing the body naturally, it also improves functions such as mobility and back and neck pain. For the best results, find a reliable, trusted, and skilled chiropractor.
Conclusion
Headaches and migraines can stop you from accomplishing your day-to-day tasks. A headache can be throbbing or mild and can last for some hours. Stress, emotional changes, and tension can cause headaches. Migraines are complex and are often linked to the enlargement of the blood vessels. Natural treatment techniques such as reducing food triggers, chiropractic adjustments, natural oils, reflexology, scalp massage, and staying hydrated can help reduce treat chronic headaches and migraines.