Title: Understanding Menstrual Migraine with Nausea
Author: Chen Yan, Licensed Practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (License Number: 241330108000021)
This article is written by Dr. Chen Yan, based on classical theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine and clinical experience, and is intended for educational purposes only. License information can be verified on the official website of the National Health Commission of China.
Imagine the morning rush hour in a city, where several major roads are suddenly blocked by construction sites, causing vehicles to form long queues and horns to blare. This is akin to the "blood and Qi traffic" within the body during the pre-menstrual period. If an meridian, akin to a major road, becomes blocked, the flow of blood and Qi is obstructed, leading to pressure "upstream." This pressure manifests as a headache; nausea, on the other hand, is like this pressure's manifestation.
Title: The Pathophysiology of Menstrual Migraine with Nausea
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the pre-menstrual headache accompanied by nausea is often attributed to the imbalance of Yin and Yang, as well as the stagnation of blood and Qi. The liver and gallbladder meridians are particularly involved, as they are responsible for regulating the smooth flow of Qi and blood. During the pre-menstrual period, the liver's Yin and Yang may become unbalanced, leading to Qi stagnation and blood stasis, which can result in headaches and nausea.
Title: Treatment and Prevention
The treatment of menstrual migraine with nausea in Traditional Chinese Medicine focuses on balancing Yin and Yang, promoting the smooth flow of Qi and blood, and clearing heat. Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary adjustments are commonly used methods. Acupuncture can help to relieve the headache and nausea by stimulating specific points that regulate the liver and gallbladder meridians. Herbal medicine can be prescribed to address the underlying imbalances and alleviate symptoms. Dietary adjustments, such as avoiding spicy and greasy foods, can also help to prevent the onset of headaches and nausea.