Migraines are more than just headaches; they’re a debilitating neurological condition that can significantly impair quality of life. While medications can help manage symptoms, many individuals are turning toward holistic approaches like yoga to find long-term relief. This article presents a real-life testimonial of a 34-year-old woman, Shreya Menon, who battled severe migraines for over a decade before discovering the healing power of yoga.
Table of Contents
Patient Background: Shreya Menon’s Story
- Age: 34
- Occupation: Graphic Designer
- Medical History: Diagnosed with chronic migraine at age 23
- Frequency of Migraines: 10–15 days/month
- Symptoms: Intense pulsating pain (primarily on one side), nausea, visual disturbances (auras), light sensitivity
- Triggers: Stress, hormonal changes, irregular sleep, screen exposure
Shreya had tried a range of medications from triptans to beta-blockers. While these offered temporary relief, side effects like drowsiness, brain fog, and weight gain left her searching for an alternative solution.
Living with Migraine:
Migraines are not “just headaches.” They are a complex neurological condition that affects over 1 billion people worldwide, making them one of the most disabling disorders according to the World Health Organization.
Common Symptoms of Migraine Include:
- Throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells
- Visual disturbances (auras), including flashing lights or blind spots
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Fatigue and brain fog after the attack (postdrome phase)
These symptoms can last anywhere from a few hours to several days and often leave the individual drained, disoriented, and emotionally overwhelmed.
The Diagnostic Journey: Tests and Evaluation
Migraines are primarily diagnosed clinically, meaning based on symptoms, history, and exclusion of other conditions. However, because the symptoms often mimic those of more serious issues (like tumors, strokes, or aneurysms), many sufferers go through an exhausting cycle of tests and doctor visits before getting a confirmed diagnosis.
1. Consultation with a General Physician or Neurologist
The diagnostic process usually begins with a detailed medical history:
- Frequency, duration, and intensity of headaches
- Presence of aura or other neurological symptoms
- Family history of migraines
- Identification of possible triggers (e.g., stress, hormonal changes, diet)
2. Physical and Neurological Examination
Doctors perform tests to rule out other neurological disorders. This may include:
- Reflex testing
- Eye movement tracking
- Coordination and balance checks
- Muscle strength and sensory tests
3. Imaging Tests (to rule out serious conditions)
If the migraine pattern is atypical or suddenly worsens, doctors may order imaging to exclude other possibilities like brain tumors or vascular abnormalities:
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Checks for structural abnormalities in the brain
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Fast imaging to rule out bleeding or stroke
- MR Angiography: In rare cases, it is used to examine blood vessels in the brain
4. EEG (Electroencephalogram)
Occasionally used if a seizure disorder is suspected. Not commonly required for standard migraine diagnosis.
Migraine Subtypes Diagnosed by Doctors
- Migraine without aura: Most common type
- Migraine with aura: Includes visual or sensory disturbances
- Chronic migraine: 15+ headache days/month, with 8 or more being migraines
- Vestibular migraine: Involves vertigo or balance issues
- Hemiplegic migraine: Rare, involves temporary paralysis on one side
Doctors Involved in Migraine Care:
1. General Practitioner (GP):
Often, the first point of contact may provide basic treatment or refer to a specialist.
2. Neurologist:
Specializes in disorders of the nervous system. A neurologist is typically the go-to expert for diagnosing and managing complex or chronic migraines.
3. Headache Specialist:
A neurologist who focuses specifically on headache and migraine disorders. They may offer advanced treatments like Botox, CGRP inhibitors, or nerve blocks.
4. Integrative Medicine or Pain Specialists:
May recommend lifestyle interventions, supplements, acupuncture, or alternative therapies like yoga and biofeedback.
Turning Point: Discovering Yoga
In 2021, on the recommendation of her neurologist and a close friend, Shreya enrolled in a therapeutic yoga course tailored for migraine sufferers at a local wellness center. She began practicing under the guidance of a certified yoga therapist trained in yoga for neurological disorders.
Yoga Protocol Followed:
Shreya practiced a daily 60-minute session that included:
1. Breathing Techniques (Pranayama):
- Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing): To balance the nervous system
- Bhramari (Humming Bee Breath): To calm the mind and reduce anxiety
- Ujjayi (Victorious Breath): For focus and internal awareness
2. Asanas (Yoga Poses):
Gentle, restorative poses aimed at reducing tension in the neck and shoulders:
- Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Bound Angle Pose)
- Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose)
- Balasana (Child’s Pose)
- Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
- Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)
3. Meditation & Mindfulness:
- Guided body scans and mindfulness meditation
- Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) once a week to address chronic fatigue
Results and Progress:
After 8 weeks of consistent practice, Shreya reported:
- Migraine Frequency Reduced: From 10–15 days/month to 4–5 days/month
- Pain Intensity Lowered: Migraines were less severe, often not requiring medication
- Improved Sleep: Regular, deeper sleep patterns
- Lower Stress Levels: Noticeable drop in anxiety and emotional reactivity
- Better Posture and Awareness: Fewer neck spasms, better ergonomics at work
Scientific Support:
Research supports Shreya’s experience. Studies published in journals like Neurology India and Headache show that yoga can significantly reduce the frequency, intensity, and duration of migraine attacks by:
- Regulating the autonomic nervous system
- Improving blood circulation
- Reducing stress-induced hormonal fluctuations
- Enhancing vagal tone
Key Takeaways
- Yoga is not a cure-all, but it can be a powerful complementary therapy for chronic migraine sufferers.
- Consistency and personalized instruction are crucial.
- Combining yoga with lifestyle changes like reducing screen time, eating regular meals, and improving sleep hygiene amplifies results.
Conclusion:
Shreya’s journey reflects the growing body of evidence that supports yoga as a holistic and empowering tool in managing chronic migraines. For many, it offers more than symptom relief; it offers control, hope, and healing from within.
Reference Article:
- Yoga for Migraine and Headache Relief
- Yoga for migraine: Evidence, poses, and more
- Yoga for Migraine Treatment
- The Best Yoga Poses to Prevent and Relieve Migraines
