Migraine is a recurring headache disorder. Attacks often cause throbbing pain on one side of the head, with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound, and can last from a few hours to three days. Some people see flashing lights or zigzag lines (an aura) before the pain starts.

Common triggers

  • Stress, and the let-down after stress
  • Too little or irregular sleep
  • Skipped meals and dehydration
  • Periods and hormonal changes
  • Bright light, loud noise and strong smells
  • Weather changes
  • Some foods and drinks, which differ from person to person

See a doctor urgently if

  • it is the worst headache of your life, or it starts suddenly like a thunderclap
  • the headache comes with fever and a stiff neck
  • there is weakness, numbness, slurred speech or confusion
  • it follows a head injury
  • you are over 50 and this is a new type of headache

Painkillers and rebound headaches

Taking painkillers for headache on more than 10 to 15 days a month can itself cause more frequent headaches. If you need them that often, tell your doctor.

How Dr Amit Kumar Gupta approaches migraine

He looks at how often attacks come, how long they last, where the pain is, your triggers, sleep, stress and family history before prescribing homeopathic medicine. A headache diary for a month before your visit helps a lot. The aim is fewer, shorter and milder attacks.

Self-care that helps

  • Sleep and eat at regular times
  • Drink enough water
  • Reduce screen time and take breaks
  • Limit tea and coffee
  • Make time for walking, yoga or another way to manage stress

Dr Amit Kumar (BHMS, Delhi Homoeopathic Board Reg. No. 2350) has practised in Sector 4, Vaishali, Ghaziabad since 1994. The clinic is at B-3, Basement, Mini Reliance Plaza, near Sarvodaya Hospital, open Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 1 PM and 6 PM to 8 PM. A consultation costs ₹500.

See clinic timings and book a consultation