Migraine is more than a bad headache. It is a neurological condition that causes recurring attacks of throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, together with other symptoms. Attacks can last from hours to a few days.
What a migraine can involve
- Throbbing or pulsing head pain, often on one side
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound or smell
- An aura in some people: flashing lights, blind spots or tingling before the pain
- Tiredness or a low mood before or after an attack
Common triggers
- Stress, and the relaxation after stress
- Irregular or poor sleep
- Skipped meals or dehydration
- Hormonal changes around periods
- Certain foods or drinks, including alcohol and caffeine
- Bright light, strong smells and weather changes
Medical care and self-care
Keeping a diary of attacks and triggers is one of the most useful steps. Doctors can prescribe medicines to stop an attack and, for frequent attacks, medicines to reduce how often they occur.
Acupuncture and herbal medicine
At The Tole, neuro acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are offered as a complement to medical care. In the traditional view they aim to ease tension, support circulation and help the body regain balance.
Clinical guidelines in several countries recognise acupuncture as an option for preventing migraine, and studies have found it may reduce how often attacks occur in some people. Results vary, and we do not promise a particular outcome.
Acupuncture and herbal treatment at The Tole
At The Tole, treatment combines neuro acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. The Master’s team reviews your history and any medical reports, then recommends acupuncture, herbal preparations, or both. Herbs are prepared for the individual, using natural herbs and the family’s ancestral formulas.
You can walk in during opening hours without an appointment. If you live far away, email your medical reports and we will advise you on herbs and, where suitable, an intensive course of acupuncture. Herbs can be couriered to any country, usually in 3 to 5 working days. See herbs by post.
What to expect at your first visit
- Walk in or message us. No appointment is needed during opening hours. You can also send a WhatsApp message first.
- Tell us your story. The Master’s team asks about your symptoms and history, and looks at any reports you bring.
- Agree a plan. They recommend neuro acupuncture, herbal medicine, or both, and explain what to expect.
- Follow up. If you take herbs, we ask you to update us on your progress by email.
Why people choose The Tole
- A family practice, now in its fourth generation, in Kuala Lumpur since 1992
- Officially opened by the Health Minister on 31 January 1993
- Herbal formulas prepared for each patient, using natural herbs
- Walk-ins welcome, and herbs couriered to any country
Common questions
Can acupuncture help migraine?
Some studies suggest it may reduce the number of attacks in some people. Results vary, and we offer it alongside your medical care rather than in place of it.
How is migraine different from a normal headache?
Migraine attacks are usually more severe, often one-sided, and come with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound. A doctor can help confirm the type of headache you have.
Should I stop my migraine medicine?
No. Please keep taking what your doctor prescribed, and tell us everything you take so we can advise safely.
See a doctor first if
- A sudden, severe headache, the worst of your life. Go to emergency care at once
- Headache with weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, vision loss or a drooping face. Call emergency services (999 in Malaysia)
- Headache with fever and a stiff neck, or after a head injury
- A new pattern of headache after the age of 50
Ready to talk to us?
Message us on WhatsApp, or walk in during opening hours. No appointment is needed.
Traditional Chinese medicine is offered as a complement to, not a replacement for, medical care. We do not promise a cure or a particular result, and responses vary from person to person. Please keep your doctor informed about any herbs or treatments you use.