Top Migraine Triggers and How to Manage

• Stress:

• • Stress is a trigger for almost 70% of people with migraines
  • Start by making a list of causes of stress and tension
  • Work towards reducing these triggers in your life
  • Biofeedback
  • Relaxation therapy
  • Meditation
  • Exercise
  • Consistent sleep schedule

• Changes in sleep schedule

• • Try to go to bed at same time every night and get at least 7-8 hours of sleep
  • Eliminate TV, texting, reading, listening to music while in bed
  • Do not nap during the day

• Hormones

• • Women are three times more likely to have a migraine then men
  • Some methods of birth control that can stabilize hormone levels and prevent future migraine attacks
  • Headache specialist and gynecologist to find right treatment plan

• Caffeine and Alcohol

• • Limit and know your limits when it comes to alcohol consumption
  • Warning signs of a migraine attack after drinking alcohol, take your acute medication immediately

• Changes in the weather

• • Storms, excessive heat and changes in barometric pressure
  • Adjust schedule accordingly
  • Errands in the morning before it gets too hot

• Diet

• • Try to identify specific food triggers and avoid as much as possible
  • Most common ones being foods with histamine and MSG, chocolate, cheese, dairy products, artificial sweeteners, caffeine, cured meats and anything with a strong smell

• Dehydration

• • Carry a bottle of water and keep track of fluid intake
  • Limit consumption of diuretics

• Light

• • Natural light- wear sunglasses when outside
  • Green light is the only light that has been shown to not aggravate migraine

• Smell

• • Avoid perfumes, strong food smells, chemicals or gasoline

• Medication overuse

• Stop taking the medication and clear it out of your system before you can stop the cycle of pain
•  work with your doctor to learn how to come off certain medications, such as opioids or butalbital containing medications, safely.

https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/top-10-migraine-triggers-and-how-to-deal-with-them/