26-Year-Old Woman Finds Relief from Chronic Migraines Through Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine
Disclaimer: This article is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. Patient details have been altered to protect privacy.
Overview
A 26-year-old woman has struggled with frequent headaches since childhood. Her condition often escalated to severe pain, accompanied by nausea and vomiting. She visited a clinic in May 2019 seeking a long-term treatment plan. After a series of tests ruled out brain-related abnormalities, she was diagnosed with migraines. A combination of Western and Chinese treatments was implemented, including Zolmitriptan tablets, Paracetamol with dihydrocodeine, and the traditional herbal formula Qianzheng San. After two weeks of outpatient treatment and a one-month follow-up, her symptoms significantly improved.
Patient Profile
- Age & Gender: Female, 26 years old
- Diagnosis: Migraines (Vascular Headaches)
- Hospital: Shandong Third Provincial Hospital
- Treatment: Combination of Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
- Duration: 2 weeks outpatient treatment, 1-month follow-up
- Outcome: Stable condition, reduced frequency and intensity of headaches
Initial Consultation
The patient, a young professional, had a long history of migraines that worsened with exposure to wind or during menstruation. Her headaches were often debilitating, causing nausea and vomiting. Previous MRI scans showed no abnormalities, and she was previously diagnosed with migraines. Seeking a preventive strategy, she came in for consultation. Although neurological exams showed no abnormalities, due to missing prior test results, she was admitted for further evaluation to rule out organic brain disease. She fully cooperated with the medical team.
Treatment Process
During her hospital stay, blood tests, lipid profile, brain CT, EEG, and bubble studies were conducted. Apart from elevated cholesterol levels, all other results were normal. Based on her history and symptoms, she was diagnosed with migraines or vascular headaches. She was prescribed Zolmitriptan and Paracetamol with dihydrocodeine for pain relief. By the third day, her headache had completely subsided. However, after one week, she returned with mild headaches and complained of stomach discomfort from continued use of painkillers.
Integrating Traditional Chinese Medicine
To reduce gastrointestinal side effects, the medical team introduced TCM treatment using the classical formula Qianzheng San. Within a week of herbal therapy, her headaches improved significantly without further gastric issues. This combined approach helped manage her symptoms more effectively and minimized drug-related complications.
Outcomes and Follow-Up
Migraines are a common type of primary headache, particularly among women, and often have a genetic component. While the patient initially responded well to medication, migraines tend to recur after discontinuation. Long-term use of painkillers can lead to digestive problems like gastritis or ulcers. By incorporating TCM into her treatment plan, the patient experienced sustained relief. A one-month follow-up confirmed she had no significant discomfort and was managing her condition well.
Key Recommendations
Migraines are often linked to hormonal changes, especially during menstruation. Patients are advised to avoid spicy, greasy foods and exposure to cold or wind. Maintaining emotional stability and healthy sleep patterns is crucial. If headaches persist or are accompanied by dizziness, vision changes, or confusion, a brain MRI should be considered to rule out serious conditions such as encephalitis or stroke. In this case, lifestyle adjustments and integrative medicine played a major role in symptom reduction.
Clinical Insights
Migraines are a common but often underestimated condition. Recurrent episodes should not be ignored, as timely treatment can significantly improve quality of life. This case demonstrates the benefits of combining Western and Chinese medicine to manage symptoms effectively while minimizing side effects. Regular follow-ups, lifestyle changes, and a holistic treatment approach are essential for long-term control. Patients who continue to experience migraines despite medication should consult a specialist to explore other potential causes, including neurological or cardiovascular issues.