What causes chronic headache? - #19628
Hi doctor Please can you tell me what causes severe and chronic headache because I am having headaches for 4 weeks now..I went to the hospital and told them about my illness and also Panadol is not helping. An HEO put me on antibiotics and gave me ibuprofen for one week dose. I drank the medicine as prescribed but my head is still paining. Please can you help me out? Thank you
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Doctors’ responses
Hello Margarette, I’m sorry to hear you’re dealing with persistent and severe headaches. To better understand your condition, I would need more details about the type of headache you’re experiencing. Is the pain localized to a specific area (like the forehead, temples, or behind the eyes), or is it generalized? Is it throbbing, dull, or sharp? Do you experience any other symptoms like nausea, light sensitivity, or vomiting along with the headache? How are your sleep patterns, stress levels, and hydration? Do you have any history of migraine, tension headaches, or sinus issues? Also, are there any dietary factors, such as excessive caffeine, alcohol, or certain foods, that could be contributing? Lastly, has there been any recent trauma, such as neck strain or a fall, that could be linked to the onset of the headache?
Hello Margaret, In Ayurveda, chronic headaches are often linked to an imbalance of Vata and Pitta doshas, leading to stress, poor digestion, or toxin accumulation. Management involves herbal remedies like Brahmi and Ashwagandha for calming the mind, Shankhpushpi and Guduchi to reduce inflammation, and Triphala for detoxification. Therapies such as Shirodhara with Brahmi oil, Nasya with Anu Taila, and head massages using cooling oils like coconut or sesame oil can provide relief. Following a Pitta-pacifying diet by avoiding spicy, fried, and acidic foods, staying hydrated, and consuming cooling foods like cucumber and ghee is recommended. Practicing Pranayama and gentle yoga further supports relaxation and reduces stress. Consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner ensures personalized treatment for long-term relief.
Chronic headaches can be such a massive pain — quite literally. From an Ayurvedic perspective, they often stem from an imbalance in your doshas, typically Pitta or Vata. These energies, when in turmoil, disrupt your body’s natural harmony, leading to prolonged discomfort like you’re experiencing. Pitta imbalances, usually aggravated by stress, heat, or acidic foods can result in those fiery, intense headaches. On the other hand, Vata dosha, associated with air, may cause throbbing, erratic pain, often worsened by irregular routines or anxiety.
Digestive issues, or Agni (your digestive fire), play a big role here too. When digestion isn’t smooth, ama (toxins) accumulates in your system, kinda clouding your clarity and mind, which could lead to headaches. Ya know, it’s crucial to reset that digestive balance. Did you notice any specific triggers, like certain foods or activities? Keeping a headache diary might help ya track these sneaky causes down.
Since allopathics not working well, here’s some Ayurvedic nuggets you might wanna give a shot. Try sipping hot water throughout the day to clean ama. Ginger tea with a pinch of turmeric can help pacify Pitta and stoke Agni. Stick to warm, easily digestible meals, avoiding cold, spicy, and oily foods. Go for light exercises like yoga or walking during dawn or dusk when energies are calmer.
Geez, I almost forgot – can’t neglect the nurturing side. Oil massages with cooling oils like Brahmi or coconut on your scalp, especially before bed, can do wonders. Just massage gently, let the relaxation seep in. Incorporate deep breathing, like alternate nostril breathing (Nadi Shodhana), into your daily routine. These remedies may take time, but they’re potent in their subtlety.
Don’t let this linger too long without consulting healthcare for further tests if does not mitigate. But implementing Ayurveda can support body’s own healing. And most importantly, trust your body’s wisdom in knowing what it needs.

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