Migraine Diagnosis and Treatment in Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine

Migraine is one of the most common types of primary headaches, with an extremely high incidence rate. According to relevant statistics, there are more than 30 million migraine sufferers in China alone. Severe migraine can cause intense pain, frequent attacks, and symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, making it a highly debilitating condition.

Given the severity of the condition, many patients are actively seeking effective treatments to manage or even cure their migraines. This raises the question: how do traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine approach the diagnosis and treatment of migraines?

Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective

In traditional Chinese medicine, migraine is often referred to as "pian tou feng," or "wandering wind in the head." Ancient medical texts describe migraine as a condition with sudden, severe pain that subsides as quickly as it appears, leaving the patient seemingly normal in between episodes. TCM typically treats migraines using herbal remedies, acupuncture, and other holistic methods. While these treatments may provide some relief, they often offer limited effectiveness and may not fully resolve the condition.

Western Medical Approaches

From a Western medical standpoint, migraine treatment often involves pharmacological interventions. Patients are commonly prescribed over-the-counter pain relievers or, in more severe cases, specific medications such as opioids, triptans, and ergotamines. While these drugs can temporarily alleviate symptoms for many, they are not always effective for chronic or treatment-resistant migraines and may come with side effects or dependency risks.

Innovative Treatment for Refractory Migraine

For patients with refractory migraines—those that do not respond to conventional therapies—a more advanced solution may be necessary. In many cases, chronic migraines are caused by blood vessels in the scalp compressing nerves, leading to the release of pain-inducing substances. Our medical team specializes in a targeted treatment known as microvascular decompression surgery.

How Microvascular Decompression Works

This procedure involves precisely relieving the pressure caused by blood vessels pressing on the affected nerves. By addressing the root cause of the pain, the surgery can effectively resolve the condition. The operation is minimally invasive, with incisions typically measuring between 2 to 5 centimeters, all made within the hairline to preserve aesthetic appearance. Patients benefit from a quick recovery, minimal scarring, and a high success rate in achieving long-term pain relief.