What is Vertical Headaches?
Vertical headaches, a term that encapsulates a variety of head pains experienced when in an upright position, are distinct in their occurrence and sensation. While not a classification commonly found in medical literature, it implies a headache that either emerges or intensifies upon standing.
This can be a peculiar and disconcerting symptom for patients, often leading them to seek both conventional and alternative treatments. In the realm of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), such symptoms are not viewed in isolation but are considered signals of deeper imbalances within the body's energetic system.
How does TCM view Vertical Headaches?
From the lens of TCM, vertical headaches are indicative of a disruption in the harmonious flow of Qi and blood within the body. TCM does not recognize vertical headaches as a separate diagnosis; rather, it assesses them based on the individual's overall pattern of health.
Patterns in TCM are comprehensive profiles that reflect the patient's physiological and pathological conditions. Identifying the correct pattern is critical because it directs the treatment strategy, which could involve a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary advice, and Qi Gong exercises. This pattern differentiation allows practitioners to tailor treatments specifically to the individual's unique health landscape.
Root Causes of Vertical Headaches in TCM
In TCM, the causes of vertical headaches are often linked to internal imbalances. For instance, a pattern of Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency might manifest as a vertical headache accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, ringing in the ears, and insomnia. This pattern suggests an insufficiency of the cooling, moistening aspects of Yin, leading to a relative excess of Yang, which can "rise" and cause headaches.
Another pattern could be the Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel, where the headache is associated with a sensation of fullness in the chest or hypochondrium, potentially alleviating with warmth. Understanding these patterns is crucial as they guide the course of treatment in TCM, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach to each patient's symptoms.
Explore below more details about what might cause Vertical headaches according to TCM.
- By Syndrome
- By Organ
- Yin Deficiency
- Cold
- Liver
- Kidney
Yin Deficiency
Yin deficiency in TCM is a pattern of disharmony characterized by a depletion of the body's Yin energy, which represents the cooling, moistening, and nurturing aspects of our physiology. This condition often arises from factors like chronic stress, overwork, insufficient rest, or prolonged illness. Symptoms of Yin deficiency can include a sensation of heat, especially in the afternoon or evening, night sweats, insomnia, a dry mouth or throat, and a red tongue with little coating. There might also be a general feeling of restlessness or irritability. Since Yin is essential for balancing the body's active and warm Yang energy, its deficiency leads to a relative excess of Yang, manifesting as heat or dryness symptoms.... see more
Yin Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Vertical Headaches
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency | Vertical headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility, Melasma... see more | Zuo Gui Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang |
Cold
In TCM "Cold" as a pattern of disharmony refers to a specific type of imbalance within the body's systems, often linked to a deficiency or weakness. It's not about feeling physically cold or having a common cold, but rather a metaphorical description of certain symptoms and underlying conditions. When a TCM practitioner says someone suffers from "Cold," it usually implies that the body's Yang energy, which is warm and active, is insufficient or overpowered by Yin energy, which is cool and passive. Symptoms of Cold in TCM can include a general feeling of coldness, cold limbs, pale complexion, low energy, slow metabolism, and a preference for warmth. ... see more
Cold Patterns That Can Lead to Vertical Headaches
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel | Vertical headaches, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Testicular pain, Scrotal contraction, Chills, Cold extremities, Vomiting clear liquid, Vaginal atrophy... see more | Nuan Gan Jian |
Liver
In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more
Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Vertical Headaches
Common Symptoms: Dizziness Tinnitus Hearing Loss Lower Back Pain Occipital Headache Insomnia Limb Numbness Tingling Of Limbs
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency | Vertical headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility, Melasma... see more | Zuo Gui Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang |
| Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel | Vertical headaches, Hypochondrial fullness and distention with pain alleviated by warmth, Testicular pain, Scrotal contraction, Chills, Cold extremities, Vomiting clear liquid, Vaginal atrophy... see more | Nuan Gan Jian |
Kidney
In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more
Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Vertical Headaches
| Pattern Name | Relevant Symptoms | Relevant Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency | Vertical headaches, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Hearing loss, Lower back pain, Occipital headache, Insomnia, Limb numbness, Tingling of limbs, Dry eyes, Blurry vision, Dry throat, Dry hair, Skin dryness, Withered and brittle nails, Vaginal dryness, Night sweats, Dry stools, Nocturnal emission, Scanty menstruation, Amenorrhea, Late menstruation, Infertility, Melasma... see more | Zuo Gui Wan | Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Qing Gu San | Yi Guan Jian | Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang |
TCM Herbal Formulas for Vertical Headaches
Addressing vertical headaches in TCM involves selecting formulas and herbs that correspond to the identified patterns of disharmony. For Yin Deficiency, nourishing herbs such as those found in Zuo Gui Wan or Qi Ju Di Huang Wan are often recommended to replenish the body's essence and subdue the rising Yang.
In the case of Cold Stagnation, warming formulas like Nuan Gan Jian may be used to dispel the cold and promote the smooth flow of Qi. These herbal prescriptions are intricately composed to target the specific nuances of each patient's condition, demonstrating the personalized nature of TCM treatment.
Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address vertical headaches, organized by cause and by formula type.
- By Cause
- By Formula Type
- Yin Deficiency
- Cold
- Formulas that nourish yin and tonify
- Formulas that clear heat from deficiency
- Formulas that pacify and extinguish internal wind
- Formulas that promote qi movement
Top Formula for Yin Deficiency:
Zuo Gui Wan
Suitable for Yin Deficiency patterns that may cause vertical headaches, such as Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency
Learn more
All Formulas Recommended for Vertical Headaches Caused by Yin Deficiency
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For |
|---|---|
| Zuo Gui Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Qing Gu San | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Yi Guan Jian | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Top Formula for Cold:
Nuan Gan Jian
Suitable for Cold patterns that may cause vertical headaches, such as Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel
Learn more
Formulas that nourish Yin and tonify
These formulas are suitable for some vertical headaches-causing patterns like Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Zuo Gui Wan, with prepared rehmannia as a key herb.
Other formulas of this category are listed in the table below.
All "formulas that nourish yin and tonify" recommended for vertical headaches
| Formula | Patterns Suitable For (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Zuo Gui Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Qi Ju Di Huang Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Liu Wei Di Huang Wan | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
| Yi Guan Jian | Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency |
Formulas that clear Heat from Deficiency
These formulas are suitable for some vertical headaches-causing patterns like Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Qing Gu San, with stellaria root as a key herb.
Formulas that pacify and extinguish Internal Wind
These formulas are suitable for some vertical headaches-causing patterns like Kidney and Liver Yin Deficiency.
One such formula is Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang, with achyranthes root as a key herb.
Formulas that promote Qi movement
These formulas are suitable for some vertical headaches-causing patterns like Stagnation of Cold in the Liver Channel.
One such formula is Nuan Gan Jian, with fennel seeds as a key herb.
TCM Herbs for Vertical Headaches
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address vertical headaches, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that warm the interior and/or expel cold
- Tonic herbs for blood deficiency
- Herbs that cool the blood
- Herbs that invigorate the blood
Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold
Vertical headaches can be treated by these herbs if it is due to internal coldness or deficient Yang energy, working to warm the body and dispel cold.
One such herb is Fennel Seeds (Xiao Hui Xiang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for vertical headaches, like Nuan Gan Jian.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that warm the Interior and/or expel Cold" recommended for vertical headaches
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Fennel Seeds (Xiao Hui Xiang) | Nuan Gan Jian |
| Cinnamon Bark (Rou Gui) | Nuan Gan Jian |
Tonic herbs for Blood Deficiency
Vertical headaches can be treated by these herbs in cases of blood deficiency, working to nourish and replenish the body's blood supply.
One such herb is Prepared Rehmannia (Shu Di huang), a key herb in some formulas recommended for vertical headaches, like Zuo Gui Wan.
Herbs that cool the Blood
Vertical headaches can be treated by these herbs when it is a consequence of excess heat in the blood, helping to cool and detoxify the blood.
One such herb is Stellaria Roots (Yin Chai Hu), a key herb in some formulas recommended for vertical headaches, like Qing Gu San.
Herbs that invigorate the Blood
Vertical headaches can be treated by these herbs when it stems from stagnation or poor circulation of blood, helping to improve blood flow and alleviate related discomfort.
One such herb is Achyranthes Roots (Niu Xi), a key herb in some formulas recommended for vertical headaches, like Zhen Gan Xi Feng Tang.
