Being able to identify your triggers can help you avoid migraines. How can you identify them?
Keeping a migraine [1] diary is very helpful. Read on to know more about triggers. Some important points about triggers:
- They are not the same for every migraineur
- They accumulate, meaning that the more triggers are present on a given day, the higher the risk for a migraine attack.
- Some triggers are underestimated (such as fasting and dehydration) and other overestimated (chocolate and certain foods).
- Some attacks come without any obvious trigger.
| Triggers and examples | |
| Types of triggers | Examples |
| Hormonal variations (in women) | Menstrual period (drop in estrogen levels) First trimester of pregnancy Perimenopause (unstable estrogen levels)Some contraceptive methods (variable among women) |
| Food | Skipping meals Late breakfast Dehydration Coffee withdrawal Alcohol, aspartame, monosodium glutamate (MSG), chocolate, cold cuts, aged cheese, sulfites (wine) Some patients have reported other foods to be triggers. |
| Stress | Negative stress (illness, anxiety, difficult situation, depressive episode) Positive stress (planning a great event) |
| Sensory stimuli | Harsh lighting Loud sounds Specific odours (tobacco, gas, perfume) |
| Sleep | Lack of sleep, disrupted sleep Sleeping later than usual (which unfortunately often leads to caffeine [2] withdrawal) Jetlag |
| Physical activity | Intense exercising (often combined with fasting and dehydration) Sexual activity (it can also provide relaxation and pain relief) |
| Environmental conditions | Heat, humidity, change in air pressure Smog, air quality, chinook Allergens, seasonal allergies (sinus irritation) |
| Medication | Consult a doctor or pharmacist, many possibilities. |