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Definition

A type of headache that is caused by abnormal dilatation of arteries of the scalp and the brain. The widening is preceded by the partial closure of these arteries. As the result, this causes temporary disturbances of brain function.

Accompanying signs & symptoms

Key symptoms: One sided headache, vision disturbances, photophobia, nausea, vomiting and partial loss of sensation on the face, tense neck and back of the head

Possible Causes

Stress, anxiety
Severe physical tensions in the neck, shoulders and body
An "easily" stressed personality

Physiological Mechanisms

Migraine often associates with severe tension in the shoulder, neck and occipital region (back) of the head. From clinical practise, accumulated tension in the body may induce physiological imbalances which causes abnormal dilatation of the blood vessels and hyperactivities in the brain.

Treatment Modalities

Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine

Mechanism of action of the herbs used

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine treats the condition by doing the following:
Releasing muscle tensions in the head
Reducing harmful hormones in the body
Reducing physiological stress in the body
Promoting deep relaxation of the body
Calming the mind and body

Health Advice

Reducing the intake of caffeine and cigarette smoking
Eat a balance diet
Establishing a regular eating habit
Encouraging moderate, regular and outdoor exercises

References

Longman concise medical dictionary, 1994

Chinese-English Manual of Common-Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ou Ming, 1995