What to eat for migraine?

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on October 26, 2024
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Patients with migraines, when suffering from an attack, need to take some medications for treatment. Commonly used medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers, which are effective for many patients. Additionally, specific anti-migraine drugs, such as ergot preparations, can also be used. Dietary considerations are also important; it is recommended that migraine sufferers eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits to help supplement sufficient folic acid and vitamins, which have a very beneficial impact on blood vessels, because migraines are caused by vascular dysfunction. Furthermore, eating foods rich in B vitamins, such as lean meats, rice, millet, and sorghum is advisable. Migraine patients should avoid eating pickled foods, cheese, or chocolate.

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Written by Feng Ying Shuai
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Which area is moxibustion applied for migraines?

Migraines can be relieved through moxibustion by targeting specific acupoints to alleviate headache symptoms. Firstly, local acupoints can be selected; for migraines, you can use the Ah-Shi points, and also massage points such as the temples, Si Zhu Kong, Jiao Sun, Shuai Gu, and Feng Chi. Additionally, based on differential diagnosis, distant acupoints may be chosen. For instance, if the migraine is caused by external pathogens, add Feng Chi and Feng Fu points. If caused by phlegm and turbidity disturbances, add Feng Long and Zu San Li to clear phlegm and reduce turbidity. For migraines due to deficiency of qi and blood, add Qi Hai, Xue Hai, and Zu San Li to nourish yin and replenish qi, with the aim of treating deficiencies and alleviating pain.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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How long will it take for the migraine to get better?

Migraine is very prevalent among young and middle-aged people, with sufferers usually experiencing unilateral, though sometimes bilateral, pulsating headaches. These may accompany a sensitivity to light and sound, along with significant nausea and vomiting. Typically, migraines resolve within 4-72 hours, meaning recovery generally occurs within three days. If it doesn’t resolve within three days, it’s referred to as a status migrainosus. During an acute migraine episode, it is important to rest, ensure adequate sleep, consume more fruits, and take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for treatment. Specific pain relievers such as triptans may also be used, and concurrent complications should be addressed. Furthermore, if migraines recur frequently, prophylactic treatment with medications like beta-blockers may be considered. (Please consult a professional physician before taking any medication.)

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What to do about migraines?

Migraine prevalence is relatively high, and for those experiencing migraines, the following treatments are recommended: First, it is essential to maintain a calm emotional state and avoid excessive stress. Secondly, medication can be used for treatment. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used and are effective for many patients. However, if there is no relief after taking these, or if the pain is very severe, medications specifically for treating migraines such as ergot derivatives and triptans may be prescribed. Third, if the migraine is accompanied by nausea and vomiting, antiemetic drugs can be used. Additionally, if the patient with migraine also experiences significant restlessness or anxiety, an appropriate amount of sedative medication can be applied. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Liu Yan Hao
Neurology
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Can migraines be hereditary?

Migraines are not hereditary and are not considered genetic diseases. The onset of migraines is mainly associated with staying up late, fatigue, and the consumption of certain foods that can trigger migraines, such as foods containing nitrites. This includes pickled vegetables, overnight foods, leftover meals, and leftover vegetables, as these contain nitrites, which can trigger migraine attacks. Other triggers include certain dairy products and red wine. To reduce the frequency of migraine episodes, it is advisable to avoid these foods and not to stay up late. When a migraine attack occurs, temporary relief can be sought through oral painkillers. Regular scheduling and avoiding the aforementioned foods can significantly reduce the number of migraine episodes. Therefore, migraines are not hereditary and do not constitute a genetic disease. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician, and do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Feng Ying Shuai
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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How to massage for migraines

Migraine is a common clinical symptom in medical practice. Sometimes patients may experience pain on the left side of their head, sometimes on the right, or sometimes at the back of the skull. Based on the specific condition of the patient, we can choose to perform massages. For instance, if the pain is on the left side, we can massage certain acupuncture points on the left side and the tips of the ears, as well as the "Lugou" point. Additionally, using our five fingers to comb from the front to the back of the head may also alleviate the migraine on the left side. Of course, massaging certain parts on the left side of the body, such as the "Waiguan" and "Fengchi" points, can also help reduce the symptoms of migraine.