Migraines: A Tale of Two Friends

Two young women were returning home one late summer afternoon after their 10 year college reunion. They were college best friends, but hadn’t seen one another since graduation.

Healthy living can help you to thrive on your journey through life.

Both had similar jobs, were married and had beautiful children. They both graduated with higher than average grades. Both were friendly and full of ambitions for a future filled with love, happiness, family, friendships, children, careers and health.

She had everything she ever wanted in life: a loving, wonderful husband, two great children, and an exciting and challenging job in her company that led to two promotions. She enjoyed playing tennis with her ALTA local league, golfing with her husband on occasion, and going hiking and biking with their children as a whole family. She was involved in her local church, loved cooking and found time to exercise on her treadmill and read her favorite mysteries. She also enjoyed coffee with friends. The life was good.

She had suffered from migraines for a year or so after college. After that, however, she no longer suffered from pain.

Her best friend suffered mild depression during college, and was prescribed an antidepressant. She suffers from debilitating headaches almost every day. She has been unable to work for days and has even missed a number of days due to the pain. She was warned that if her absences continued, she could be fired. She has to go to bed as soon as she arrives home. She is spoiled by her husband, who often cooks dinner for their children.

She is not very energetic and doesn’t go out much. Physical activities are prohibited as they will only make her condition worse. They have school friends, but don’t spend much time together as a whole family. She sleeps a lot and watches a lot TV. She takes daily medication to try and prevent migraines or reduce their impact. She’s tried pills from so many different doctors, she has lost count.

What is the Difference?

Ever wondered what makes such a difference in peoples’ lives? It’s not about ability or luck. Both women had a clean slate and suffered from severe migraines during college.

What makes the difference is what each individual knows, how they use that knowledge and in their decisions and actions. You can make these choices too. You can help yourself if you suffer from chronic migraines. If no one else has been able assist you, you should know that the right information will make a huge difference. What are we discussing? The choice is between treating symptoms or the root cause.

The traditional medicine, pharmaceutical companies and insurance companies all aim to provide quick symptomatic relief for headaches and migraines. Most often, the diagnosis is based on what a patient says anecdotally and not through extensive testing. A typical doctor’s appointment might last five minutes, and the patient leaves the office with several prescriptions.

If they work, that’s great. You may leave your doctor with a new prescription to try the next time. Most migraine sufferers will find themselves in this situation. Be aware that some drugs can have a negative impact on your heart, liver, kidneys and stomach lining. These smiling and dancing people in television ads for these pills might not be smiling when they experience some of the side-effects that the announcer mentions in the last few seconds.

You can only go so far by masking or blocking the symptoms. If the underlying cause of the pain that is driving it is not treated and addressed, the pain will continue and may even worsen bodily tissues.

The Solution

Understanding the physiology behind pain is key to finding a solution. The solution begins with the belief that masking the symptoms and allowing pain to persist is not acceptable. Doctors and treatment regimens can accurately diagnose the source of pain, and treat it to eliminate it.

The muscles in the neck and head, and the trigeminal nervous system are the main cause of migraines. These structures are closely related and both have an impact on each other. The article does not go into details, but it is important to know that electromyography (EMG), which measures the muscle function, can help identify the noxious signals sent to the trigeminal nervous system, which causes headaches and migraines.

Which of the two women will you emulate more? It’s the woman who asked the right questions and knew how to find the best treatment for her migraines. You can enjoy your life again without chronic migraine headaches if you follow this advice. You can successfully treat migraines without daily medication or temporary treatments that mask symptoms. Information is readily available. Doctors are available. Treatment is available. It’s now your turn to give your tale a happy end.

Alternative Medicine Magazine published the article Migraines: A Tale of Two Friends first.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of holistic medicine over traditional medicine?

Many cultures and religions around the globe have been using holistic medicine for thousands of year. They are based on ancient knowledge, experience, and were created.

These medicines are safe, efficient, natural, and inexpensive. Side effects are much less than those associated with pharmaceutical drugs.

They also help you achieve better health and wellness.

They can prevent you from getting sick and boost your overall well being.

They can even treat diseases like cancer, diabetes and heart disease, arthritis, asthma or depression, as well as high blood pressure.

There are hundreds of different traditional medicines worldwide, each with unique benefits.

According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people rely on traditional treatments for injury or illness.

It was reported that about half a billion people rely on traditional herbal remedies for primary healthcare.

Global market for complementary therapies will reach $22.2 billion in 2020, according to estimates.

People are increasingly looking for alternative medical options to avoid any side effects that may be associated with traditional treatments.

Complementary therapies are often used when other options fail to work. They might also consider them before considering surgery or medication.

There are many reasons that people choose complementary therapy.

To improve the quality and quantity of your life
To reduce stress levels
For relaxation
To relieve pain
To enhance immunity
Help with managing serious illnesses
To boost energy
To control weight
To maintain good nutrition
To improve sleep patterns
To treat chronic conditions

Is holistic medicine legitimate?

The answer is both yes and no. Yes, because many medicines have been proven effective against various ailments. They can’t treat all conditions. It all depends on what you mean when you say “holistic.” If it means taking into account all aspects of an individual’s health, then yes, but if it just means using natural remedies over chemical ones then no.

Many people believe holistic medicine has existed since ancient times. This is simply not true. Although some healers in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome used natural remedies, they did so without scientific knowledge.

Medical practitioners started to study anatomy and physiological science in the Middle Ages. This led to the development and practice of surgery, obstetrics and pharmacology. The majority of Western countries had built public hospitals by the 19th century that allowed trained doctors to offer medical care.

Conventional medicine has become the dominant form for healthcare. Many people still prefer alternative and complementary medicine. Many find that it works better for them than pharmaceutical drugs.

Some people find that they feel more relaxed when receiving massage therapy than tranquilizers. Others enjoy eating healthy foods instead of taking prescription medications. Others find that exercise is essential for peak performance.

What are the benefits to complementary and alternative medicine?

Complementary or alternative medicine (CAM), is a general term that covers medical practices that people use when they feel they don’t get enough from allopathic medicines. These include herbal medicines, mind-body therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, homeopathy, chiropractic care, traditional Chinese medicine, biofeedback, hypnosis, and spiritual healing. Because they are not part of the standard medical treatment system, CAM practitioners will often recommend alternative therapies. Many CAM therapies can also be integrated with elements of mainstream medicine. Some forms, such as acupuncture with needles, involve heat and moxibustion.

Some CAM therapies can help with anxiety, stress management, pain relief, relaxation, sleep disorders, insomnia, and stress management. These CAM therapies can also increase your overall well-being and decrease fatigue. Some CAM therapies are used to treat specific conditions, including fibromyalgia. Other CAM therapies may simply be enjoyable experiences.

Although there is no clear definition of CAM, many definitions include at most one of the following:

A holistic perspective which considers both body and mind, as well the environment.
The belief in mind-body interaction and influence
The belief that illness can be caused by an imbalance in the environment or between the individual and his/her environment
It is important to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms.
Combination of Western science and Eastern philosophy
Treatment methods that integrate mind, body, and spirit
Natural products are better than synthetic chemicals
Touch of healing
Mindfulness
Meditation
Acupuncture
Yoga
Herbal remedies
Homeopathy
Chiropractic care
Massage therapy
Hypnotherapy
Spiritual healing
Biofeedback
Nutritional counseling
Energy healing

Certain CAM therapies can have risks. Incorrectly used, certain CAM therapies could cause serious harm and even death. Other therapies have potential side effects which must be considered against the perceived benefits. Discuss these concerns with your doctor before you decide to use any CAM.

How safe is holistic medicine.

Holistic medicines are safe as they aren’t harmful drugs, but natural remedies that have been used for centuries by people who use them.

They have been proven to be effective in treating many diseases, including asthma, arthritis, chronic pain, diabetes, high blood sugar, heart disease and obesity, as well as anxiety, stress.

Holistic medicines are also used by millions of people around the world who suffer from various kinds of diseases. They include homeopathy. acupuncture. chiropractic care. herbal treatments. massage therapy. Yoga, meditation. biofeedback. Nutrition, counseling. Physical fitness. exercise. These therapies are holistic and treat the person as a whole, not the symptoms.

What is the difference between Naturopathic Medicine and Holistic Medicine,

The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs and surgery as its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. The CAM is not intended to be a replacement for conventional treatment. It is meant to assist patients who wish to have control over their own healthcare and choose what is best.

Naturopathy on the other side is meant to be used in conjunction with conventional medical procedures. The whole person, mind and spirit are treated by naturopathy. There are many types of naturopathy. These include Ayurveda (Chinese Medicine), Traditional Native American Medicine (TNAM) and Functional Medicine.

It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. Both doctors and naturopaths may prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths tend to emphasize lifestyle changes over prescription medications.

Naturopathy is sometimes called “complementary” since it complements traditional medicine and does not replace it. Naturopaths may prescribe medication as needed.

There are differences between naturopathic medicine and other CAM modalities:

Naturopaths don’t usually prescribe medication.
Naturopaths are able to work closely with patients’ family physicians and refer them to specialists when necessary.
Naturopathic physicians must be licensed by their provinces. CAM practitioners need to be self-regulated.
Naturopathy emphasizes prevention, wellness, and education about diet & exercise.
Naturopaths strongly emphasize lifestyle factors, which include nutrition, sleep, stress management, exercise, and mental well-being.
Naturopharmacists specialize in the use of botanicals and minerals to treat specific conditions.
Naturopodists have the ability to offer individualized care that is tailored to each patient’s needs.
The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for Naturopaths.
The provincial regulatory bodies issue licenses to naturopatrists.
Naturopaticians can be registered with the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors.
Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
The United States National Board of Medical Examiners accredits Naturobiotic therapists.
Homeopaths are licensed by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
The term “holistic” refers the belief that all aspects, including physical, spiritual, social, and mental, should be taken into consideration when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will consider these elements together instead of focusing only on one aspect.

Statistics

These studies found that 38.4% concluded positive or possibly positive effects for CAM (12.4%), 4.8% concluded no effect, 0.7% concluded harmful effects, and 56.6% concluded insufficient evidence. (en.wikipedia.org)
According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
A 15-year systematic review published in 2022 on the global acceptance and use of CAM among medical specialists found the overall acceptance of CAM at 52% and the overall use at 45%. (en.wikipedia.org)

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How To

What are the 4 categories of complementary and alternative medicine?

The four main categories of CAM are mind-body medicine, natural products, manipulative therapies, and energy healing. Mind-body medicine encompasses yoga, Tai Chi, Reiki and massage therapy. It also includes homeopathy, homeopathy, aromatherapy (reflexology), naturopathy biofeedback, Hypnosis, hypnosis, and chiropractic care. Natural products include herbs, vitamins, minerals, dietary supplements, and botanicals. Manipulative therapies are physical manipulations like acupuncture or chiropractic care, acupuncture or therapeutic exercise. Techniques such as prayer or visualization can be used to bring about energy healing.

CAM is an umbrella term for various health practices outside traditional Western medical models. There are many differences in the scientific support for these practices, including whether they involve drugs and surgery, as well as which conditions they treat. Some CAM practitioners can also do diagnostic testing (e.g., blood test) and prescribe medication. Others do both.

There are many subcategories that fall within each of these categories. In mind-body medicine there are relaxation techniques. Natural products include nutritional supplements, botanical remedies, homeopathic remedies and essential oils. Manual, movement, manipulation, electrotherapies and soft tissue mobilization are some of the manipulative therapies. There are also spiritual healing methods such as prayer, faith healing, and energy healing.

Many CAM treatments treat symptoms but do not address the root cause. Some chronic diseases can be helped by CAM. If used in the right way, CAM can supplement conventional treatment options.

There are many good reasons to use CAM.

To improve their overall well-being.
To manage a specific condition.
To reduce pain or discomfort.
To prevent illness.
To promote wellness.
To address a person’s belief system.

Some people turn to CAM because it offers more control over their health than conventional medicine. Some people believe that CAM has less side effects. Some people choose CAM to not take prescription drugs. Some prefer not taking prescription medications if at all possible. Others still seek out CAM, even though they’ve had bad experiences in conventional medicine.

Some people who use CAM want to know what they are doing before they try something new. Many CAM users have questions about safety and effectiveness. Others rely more on word of mouth recommendations from their family members and friends.

Although CAM is often viewed negatively by society, most users report positive feelings toward CAM. People who use CAM are more happy and healthier than those who do not. This holds true regardless your age, gender or race.

A large majority of Americans practice some form or another of complementary and alternative medicines. 95% of adults use CAM at least once in their lives. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, NCCIH, estimates that approximately 40 million people visited CAM providers in 2010.

According to the NCCIH estimate, 10% of the U.S. Population uses chiropractors.

The American Medical Association has reaffirmed its support to integrative medicine in 2013, It recognized that doctors must “integrate scientifically valid alternative and complementary medicine into clinical practices…to meet patients’ needs.”

The Institute of Medicine published a groundbreaking report in 2007 entitled “Relaxing Contraints: Improving access to Complementary and Alternative Healthcare.” It concluded that there is no credible evidence that any particular CAM intervention is effective in treating or preventing cancer.

Despite this conclusion, CAM continues to grow in popularity. In 2008, CAM practitioners saw an 8 percent increase in number compared with 2007.

A recent survey found that almost half the respondents said they used CAM as part their primary healthcare plan.

CAM therapies include natural products, mind-body practices, manipulative techniques, energy healing modalities, exercise, dietary supplements, and other approaches.

Many CAM therapies can be used for pain relief, but many have other benefits such as improved mood, reduced stress and increased immunity.

Acupuncture is a treatment that can reduce chronic back pain, anxiety, depression and improve the immune system, promote weightloss, and improve menstrual symptoms.

Many CAM therapies are rooted in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. They have been around for thousands of years.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which originated in China 5,000 years back, has been practiced in China ever since.

TCM was only in the mid-1800s that Western science gained prominence. However, it is still an important part of modern health care.

TCM is used to treat a majority of Americans.

Yoga is another CAM therapy that is very popular. Yoga was founded in India approximately 5000 B.C. Yoga is now widely accepted worldwide.

Yoga has become increasingly popular with the general public because it offers physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits.

Yoga can help ease stress, enhance flexibility and increase strength while improving cardiovascular fitness and reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Even though there are limited scientific studies, yoga appears to have positive effects upon sleep33. This may make it useful for people suffering from insomnia.

Other CAM therapies such as aromatherapy, meditation, and homeopathy are also being accepted by mainstream medicine.

Herbal medicine is one the most commonly used types of CAM.

Herbal medicines include herbs, spices and flowers, seeds, fruits and mushrooms, bark, leaves roots, stems, and bark.

These drugs are frequently considered safer than pharmaceutical drugs and are popularly used by consumers.

The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health estimates that about 90 million Americans use some form of complementary/alternative medicine.

According to the American Cancer Society, 45% of adults diagnosed with cancer said they used alternative medicine during their illness.

The National Institutes of Health estimates that 60% of patients with cancer use CAM, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about 50% of all cancer survivors report using CAM.

According to a recent study 51% of cancer survivors used at least one type CAM.

However, only 8% discussed the topic with their physicians.

This lack of communication between conventional medical providers and CAM users represents a significant gap in healthcare delivery.

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By: Dick Benson
Title: Migraines: A Tale of Two Friends
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/uncategorized/migraines-a-tale-of-two-friends/
Published Date: Sun, 25 Jun 2023 21:57:29 +0000