According to Ayurvedic principles, the predominance of one or a combination of the Doshas causes the different types of shirahshula (headache). As a result, the symptoms also vary.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF SHIRAHSHULA
From the Ayurvedic point of view, there are six types of shirahshula (headache). These are:
1. Shankhaka & Anantavata;
2. Suryavarta;
3. Ardhavabhedaka;
4. Vatika;
5. Paittika; and
6. Shlaishmika.
1. SHANKHAKA & ANANTAVATA
Shankhaka is a predominant sign of the Anantavata type of headache.
In Anantavata, pain commences from the rear portion of the head which gradually migrates to the temporal and frontal portions. And, if there are swelling and redness in these parts, the symptom is called Shankhaka.
Anantavata is an acute form of headache and needs special treatment.
2. SURYAVARTA
The intensity of the Suryavarta pain rises and falls with the sun. The patient feels extreme pain during noontime; and as evening sets in, the pain subsides. After the sun sets, the pain vanishes.
3. ARDHAVABHEDAKA
That type of headache is termed as Ardhavabhedaka when almost 50 per cent of the patient’s head starts paining.
4. VATIKA
The Vatika type of headache has the following symptoms: Different parts of the head pain; giddiness; and even the eyes pain.
5. PAITTIKA
Paittika is accompanied by nasal bleeding and burning sensation in different parts of the crown.
The Paittika type of headache accentuates during noon and also during the autumn and summer seasons.
6. SHLAISHMIKA
The symptoms of the Shlaishmika type of headache are nasal polyp, inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane, running nose, inflammation of the middle ear, watering of eyes, and the common sensation of heaviness in the head.
Shlaishmika headaches generally occur after taking meals, and usually in the wee hours. The winter and rainy seasons accentuate the symptoms of the Shlaishmika type of headaches.
MAKE THESE PRACTICES YOUR HABITS
1. Stay away from all forms of tension;
2. Emotional factors like worries, anger and anxieties aggravate the symptoms;
3. Don’t inhibit natural urges;
3. Avoid exposure to excessive cold; heat or rain.
4. Maintain cropped or short hair especially if you suffer from the Shlaishmika type of headache.
5. Never have bath or wash your hair in cold water.
6. Catnaps or sleeping during the daytime are harmful habits.
7. If sleep eludes you, don’t keep lying on the bed.
8. Practise the yogic breathing exercises (Pranayama).
9. Regularly meditate in the morning.
10. Quit smoking and alcohol.
DIETARY REGIMEN TO CURE HEADACHES
1. Avoid spicy and fried food items;
2. Regularly drink boiled cow; Seep it when hot;
3. Ghee, sweet items and milk resolve headache problems.
4. Have kheer once a week. It is prepared by boiling fine rice mixed with milk and sugar and boiled to paste.
5. However if you suffer from diabetes, consult the doctor before having kheer. Of course, you can opt for sugar free ingredients instead of sugar.
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