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.
