Causes of Migraine According to Ayurveda

Prolonged headaches like migraines are usually caused by a variety of imbalances that have become deeply embedded in the physiology over the years. Following are some of the causes that can trigger the onset of migraines:

1) Excessive intake of oily, spicy or salty food:

Certain foods increase and decrease the activity of Vata. By consuming Vata balancing foods (milk, ghee, yogurt, nuts, seeds) and avoiding foods that can aggravate it, patients can reduce the imbalance in their body, which leads to migraines.

2) Exposure to sunlight for a prolonged period:

Dehydration causes headaches and bright light is a trigger for migraines.Wearing dark glasses while outside in sunlight and applying water on face and neck can have a soothing effect.

3) Too much stress:

Emotional stress is one of the most common triggers of migraines. Counselling and practicing stress management can be helpful in such situations. Moreover, getting adequate sleep, eating well-balanced meals and exercising regularly can help ease migraines.

4) Indigestion:

Nausea and vomiting are often associated with migraine attacks. People who regularly encounter gastrointestinal symptoms such as reflux, constipation, and nausea have a high prevalence of migraines. Drinking 1-2 glasses of lukewarm water might help.

5) Excessive consumption of alcohol or smoking:

Alcoholic beverages often cause migraine headaches, especially red wine. Although caffeine’s role in migraines is dichotomous, for some individuals, it can provide relief from migraine attack with a dose of one or two cups of strong coffee.

6) Change in sleep patterns:

Too much or too little sleep may cause migraines in some people. Lying down peacefully in a quiet, dark room and sleeping can help in case you’re deprived of sleep. Moreover, using hot or cold compresses, and massaging the blood vessels at the temples can also help.

If you’ve been living with migraines for a long time, you should consult a Jiva doctor. He will diagnose the root cause and recommend lifestyle changes as well as a course of medicine that can cure the problem for good.