Are Sinus Headache and Migraine Linked?
Sinus headache and migraine both are common types of headaches that affects millions of people across the world. It is extremely common for one to be mistaken for other. If it is not properly diagnosed, medicines can worsen the situation. There are studies that show that 90% of people who are diagnosed and treated for sinus headaches are experiencing migraine headaches.
However, it’s possible for sinus issues to trigger or exacerbate migraine attacks in some individuals. Here’s how they may be linked:
What is the Connection between Sinusitis and Migraine Headache?
1. Sinus can Trigger Migraine: Identifying if it is a sinus headache or migraine is a challenging task both for the patient and the doctor. Their symptoms are overlapping in many cases. It is also seen that sinusitis can trigger migraine in some people. The congestion due to sinusitis in head may affect the blood flow to the brain which can trigger headache in a patient of migraine. Filled sinuses in the brain can trigger trigeminal nerve which can give rise to migraines and even bad headaches.
2. Misdiagnosis: Sometimes, migraines can be misdiagnosed as sinus headaches, especially if the individual primarily experiences facial pain and pressure without the typical symptoms of a migraine (such as nausea or sensitivity to light and sound). It is true that sinus migraine is often an overlooked diagnosis if we talk of acute and chronic headaches. At Migraine Upkram, one of the best headache clinics in India, we have seen many patients who had sinusitis and migraine. These patients for years were on medicines for migraine but actually it was sinus that was creating and triggering the pain, when medications for sinus migraine were given, their pain intensity came down to 4 from 10.
3. Co-occurrence: It’s also possible for individuals to experience both sinus issues and migraines independently. In such cases, treating sinus symptoms may help alleviate some discomfort but may not necessarily prevent migraine attacks.
There are subtle differences in the symptoms of sinus headache and migraine headache. It’s important to differentiate between them because the treatments for each can differ significantly. Below are listed some signs of a sinus headache and migraine, but it is always advisable to consult the best ayurvedic doctor near you for migraine.
Signs of a Sinus Headache
Sinus headaches are typically associated with inflammation or congestion in the sinuses, which are hollow air-filled spaces in the skull. This inflammation can result from conditions such as sinusitis (sinus infection), allergies, or nasal congestion.
- Feeling of heaviness over forehead and nose
- The pain usually worsens while bending down or looking down
- Facial pain
- Stuffy nose
- Nose blockage
- Recurrent sneezing
- Recurrent allergies during change of season
- The pain worsens if head or forehead is pressed
- The symptoms will last for days to weeks
Signs of a Migraine
Migraine is a neurological condition which is accompanied by many symptoms other than throbbing headache. Triggers for migraines can include stress, hormonal changes, certain foods or drinks, sleep disturbances, and environmental factors.
1. Blurred vision
2. Nausea
3. Vomiting
4. Change in speech
5. Pain over neck
6. Stiffness of neck
7. The symptoms will last from hours to days
Can Migraine with Sinusitis be Treated?
Yes, it is complex to treat migraine and sinusitis in the same patient as both involve complex pathways in the head. It is completely curable with Ayurvedic treatment just the choice of ayurvedic medicines has to be made cautiously otherwise one can worsen the other. With Ayurvedic medicines like Sitopladi churna, Godanti Bhasma, Yashtimadhu, Tankan Bhasma, sinus and migraine can be treated simultaneously in the same person. There are many patients at our migraine clinic who have been on multiple rounds of antibiotics for sinusitis and even underwent surgery still symptoms persisted. So, if you have sinus and migraine headache, it is better to reach out to the best ayurvedic doctor for migraine in Delhi NCR.
Shirodhara Treatment for Migraine: A Natural Way to Cure Migraine Permanently
According to International Headache society, 46% of people worldwide have an active headache disorder which demands a safe and secure treatment. There are innumerable analgesics or pain killers available in the market if you have headache but no treatments are researched upon to prevent the headache. Ayurveda has existed for more than 5000 years and it continues to still exist which itself says that the science that manages to prevent the disease is only Ayurveda.
What is Shirodhara in Ayurveda?
Shirodhara is made up of two words, ‘Shiro’ which means head and ‘Dhara’ which means a flow or stream. In Ayurveda, Shirodhara is a therapeutic procedure wherein a continuous stream of warm medicated oil, milk or buttermilk is poured over the forehead rhythmically. It is the best ayurvedic treatment for Migraine or headache. The continuous flow of medicated oil over the forehead stimulates the third eye centre. Behind the third eye of middle of the forehead, lies pineal gland. Pineal gland is responsible for secreting serotonin and melatonin which are happy hormones. The stream pouring over forehead stimulates the pineal gland and more hormones are secreted. This makes Shirodhara a prime treatment for anxiety, stress, depression, Insomnia.
Which Medicines are Used in Shirodhara?
The medicine used in Shirodhara depends on Prakriti (constitution) of an individual and aggravated Doshas. It can pacify Vatta and Pitta balance very easily. For Migraine patients, following forms of Shirodhara are commonly used at our Migraine clinic in Faridabad.
1. Taila Dhara: This is the most common and most effective type of Shirodhara used when it comes to treatment of chronic headaches. Here a warm medicated oil like Chanda Bala, Bala Ashwagandha is poured onto the forehead. It balances Vatta and Pitta which are two commonly aggravated doshas in vascular headaches. This treatment also brings relaxation to the mind and reduces stress.
2. Ksheera Dhara: This type of Shirodhara involves the use of warm medicated milk instead of oil. Various herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari are prepared in milk and used for Dhara. This gives strength to the nerves and reduces stress induced headaches.
3. Takra Dhara: This type of Shirodhara involves the use of medicated buttermilk instead of oil. Takra Dhara is believed to be particular effective for promoting relaxation
4. Kwatha Dhara: This involves the use of herbal decoctions as the liquid is poured onto the forehead. It is also used in Vatik Shirashool or many types of headaches.
Benefits of Shirodhara
Shirodhara stimulates and massages the pineal gland. It causes a tingling sensation on the forehead that moves down the neck and upper spine. All types of psychological and mental disorders can benefit from Shirodhara.
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety: The warmth of the oil and gentle pressure of oil calms the nervous system and promotes relaxation.
2. Promotes Better Sleep: Shirodhara increases the secretion of melatonin which is a sleep hormone
3. Relieves Headaches and Migraines: The calming and soothing effect of Shirodhara is the most effective way to relieve the intense headache
4. Balances Hormones: The endocrine system is controlled by Pituitary gland located in brain hence with shirodhara over head stimulates the gland and ensures its proper functioning. This balances the hormones in the body which can be a cause of severe headaches.
5. Improves Hair and Scalp Health: With Shirodhara, the blood circulation improves and so the hair roots also become strong.
Are there any Studies which State that Shirodhara can Treat Migraine?
There are many research papers in international journals, controlled studies, case studies which have time and again studied the effectiveness of Shirodhara in treating headaches, sleeplessness, anxiety and stress. There are studies that have evaluated the psychological and physiological effects of Shirodhara by monitoring the rating of mood and levels of stress, ECG, EEG and selected biochemical markers of stress. The results have been very positive in these studies.
Acharya Charaka has mentioned that Manah Santap which means stress is the primary cause of head disorders especially the headaches. Shirodhara is the best treatment for stress headaches, tension headaches, migraine, vascular headache, trigeminal neuralgia. The pain of Migraine is not only debilitating but it can keep increasing if not treated. So, Shirodhara turns out be a non-invasive procedure in treating head disorders. There is lot that goes into deciding the best medicine for Shirodhara by a qualified Ayurveda practitioner. You should always get it done after consultation with a best ayurvedic doctor near you.
Can Migraine be Cured Permanently?
Migraine is a common type of headache that cause intense throbbing or pulsating pain not necessarily on one side of the head. Migraine attacks are very painful and they may be accompanied with nausea, vomiting along with severe headache. Majority of migraine patients complain of extreme sensitivity to light and sound.
At Migraine Upkram, a headache clinic in Faridabad, each patient we see has been enduring pain for years and learnt to take a pain killer whenever the episode arises. All patients have been told by their doctors that Migraine cannot be cured permanently and it can only be managed which is not true. Migraine can be cured permanently at Migraine Upkram where Ayurvedic medicines are used to treat it. The best ayurvedic medicines for migraine based on Prakriti of a patient are used here and the episodes of headaches are tracked. It is seen that 90% of migraine patients get cured of headaches within first 6 months of the treatment. Remaining 10% may take longer but the intensity and frequency of pain certainly comes down.
Should you take Painkillers for Migraine?
Painkillers just mute the notifications of pain to your body. Every migraine patient that we treat at Migraine Upkram has the same story. Earlier, a painkiller used to work but now I need a different painkiller. After some time, this also stops working. This happens due to tolerance and dependence of pain killers. Long-term use of opioids can lead to tolerance, meaning higher doses are needed to achieve the same pain-relieving effect, as well as physical dependence, where the body becomes reliant on the drug to function normally.
Side Effects of Pain Killers
Migraine cannot be treated with painkillers alone. Painkillers do relieve the pain but then they have many side effects of their own. No pain killer is safe for the body. The specific side effects can vary depending on the type of painkiller and frequency of its use.
Some common side effects of painkillers are listed below:
1. Gastric issue: Many painkillers like Ibuprofen, Naprosyn widely used for migraine irritate the lining of the stomach. It can give rise to symptoms like indigestion, burning, bloating, even ulcers or bleeding in the stomach. The more you take painkillers, the more you will experience migraine episodes.
2. Constipation: Many migraine patients are prescribed medicines like ultracet that can cause constipation. Constipation is one common trigger of migraine episode. So, for the time being your pain will come down on taking this kind of pain killer, but next episode will not be very far.
3. Kidney Problems: Long-term use of NSAIDs (painkillers) can impair kidney function, leading to fluid retention, high blood pressure, and kidney damage.
4. Heart Problems: NSAIDs (painkillers) may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially in people with heart disease or risk factors for heart disease.
5. Drowsiness: Many pain medications for migraine cause drowsiness or sleepiness. If the adequate sleep is not met then, it will increase the episodes of migraine again as lack of sleep triggers migraine.
How can you Cure Migraine Permanently?
Migraine can be cured permanently with Ayurvedic treatment and Panchkarma therapies. Ayurvedic medicines work on the root cause of headaches. If you are a migraine patient, you know that what triggers your headache may not trigger other’s headache. Some migraine patients are extremely sensitive towards smell, fragrances whereas other people may not get headaches on exposure to particular smells. It may be bright lights for other migraine patients that invite migraine attack. This is because every person has a different Prakriti and Vikriti. The aggravated dosha in the body is different so each migraine patient needs a personalized unique approach of treatment.
Herbs like Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Shankpushpi, Shatavari, Triphala are used based on Prakriti and dosha analysis of migraine patient. It is important to consult a good Ayurvedic doctor for migraine treatment. Panchkarma therapies like Shirodhara and Nasya can not only alleviate migraine symptoms but can cure migraine permanently. Nasya involves the administration of herbal oils or powders into the nostrils to clear the nasal passages and promote the flow of prana (life force energy). Nasya may help relieve congestion and alleviate migraine symptoms associated with sinusitis or nasal congestion. Shirodhara is a therapeutic technique that involves pouring a continuous stream of warm oil over the forehead. It induces deep relaxation, calms the mind, and may help alleviate migraine pain and associated symptoms.
Migraine can be easily and permanently cured if Ayurvedic treatment is given at initial stages. For chronic cases too it can be treated with diet and lifestyle modification and the medicines. Our motto that “Migraine can be treated the day you want to” makes our treatment plan the best treatment for migraine in India.
A Comprehensive Guide To Best Ayurvedic Treatment for Migraine
Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine from India, offers holistic approaches to managing health conditions, including migraines.
Ayurveda is slowly emerging as a very safe and effective way to treating chronic headaches or Migraines.
It’s important to note that individual responses to treatments can vary, and consulting with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner is recommended for personalized advice.
At Migraine Upkram, we have successfully treated Migraine with Ayurvedic medicines and Panchkarma procedures.
There have been patients who have been on Ayurvedic treatment before approaching us. But even after long treatment, their headaches did not get treated.
Understanding one’s Prakriti is very important before preparing a line of treatment.
We not only analyse the Prakriti of patient but understand what triggers their headaches.
Choosing the Right Treatment for Migraine
Based on the triggers a treatment plan is chosen. For example, Ashwagandha is a good drug of choice but if the Prakriti and triggers are pointing towards aggravated Pitta in the body of the patient, Ashwagandha is a bad choice. Instead, Yashtimadhu should be used here this is what makes us different other doctors treating Migraine. Some patients may complain of headaches getting increased after Nasya while in some Nasya works wonders in treating Migraine. Proper planning of treatment is the key behind best treatment for Migraine. This helps us offer best treatment for migraine in India.
Remedies for Managing Migraines
1. Dietary Changes:
- Avoid processed food, cheese, caffeine, packet foods, chocolates
- Emphasize diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, home-made food, lean proteins
- Stay well hydrated but avoid excessive consumption of cold drinks
2. Lifestyle Modifications:
- Establish a daily regular routine including consistent sleep patterns
- Manage stress through practices like Yoga and Meditation
- Ensure proper ventilation in your living and work spaces
- Avoid LED lights in the house or working space
3. Herbal Drugs:
Ayurveda is known for its vast range of herbal medicines. Depending upon one’s Prakriti, medicines have to be chosen. Some medicines that are used in treatment of Migraine are:
- Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): It is a wonderful drug to reduce stress and improve cognitive function
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): It is again a drug to cope up with stress, anxiety and Insomnia. Stress is one major trigger of Migraine
- Jatamansi (Nordostachys jatamansi): It is a good drug for improving brain health and stress.
- Shatavari: Shatavari can help in migraines which are related to hormonal imbalances
- Triphala: Triphala is a simple drug but it is very good for digestion and mild constipation. 70% of Migraines are gastric headaches. So, if this is taken care of, many episodes of migraine can be avoided.
Panchkarma Treatment for Migraine
Panchkarma procedures are not for everyone. Before a patient is put on complex panchkarma procedures, a deep analysis and examination is done. At our centre, we have a dedicated space for Panchkarma. There are many procedures which help in curing Migraine like:
- Shirodhara
- Nasya
- Basti
- Virechan
- Shirolepam
- Shirobasti
Choosing a right procedure for an individual is very important otherwise it can yield complications too.
Takeaway
When it comes to Migraine, identifying the underlying cause is very important and it can be done by a experienced and qualified practitioner. Usually, doctors do not listen to the patients they keep writing painkillers for headaches. The patient then stops going to the doctor and learns to live with the headache. Whenever there is a migraine attack, he goes to the nearby chemist shop and gets a painkiller. This should not be the fate of anyone suffering from Migraine. Treatment is possible at our centre. We aim to bringing an end to disturbing headaches for lifetime and be the best migraine centre in India.