Migraines are severe headaches that tend to turn chronic. There is much that is still not fully understood about the causes of migraines. Therefore, treatment of migraines generally focuses on stopping or preventing a migraine from occurring or symptoms from escalating.


Studies show that certain triggers or factors can initiate a migraine or increase the risk of developing a migraine. These are referred to as migraine triggers and can vary from person to person.

The list of potential migraine triggers is very long but only a few factors actually induce a migraine attack in a person.


Since these factors are different for everyone, it is important that the person suffering from the migraines keeps a track of what his individual triggers could be. Very often, it’s a combination of one or two factors that gets a migraine going. While some people may instinctively know what brings on their migraine attack, others are not so observant. In such cases, it is recommended that one keep a migraine diary or journal listing out any foods or situations prior to the attack that may be the cause. Over a period of time, a pattern should emerge and make identification of personal triggers much easier. Steps can then be taken to avoid these triggers or minimize their effect if possible.

Some common migraine triggers include:

• Hormonal changes – For women, hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy and menopause are prime triggers for migraine attacks. Hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptive pills can also induce a migraine.

• Weather – Drastic changes in the weather can bring about a migraine in some people. Changes in air pressure, temperature or humidity are all factors.

• Food triggers – One, all, or a combination of any of the following foods can lead to migraines: beer, wine (especially red wine), figs, bananas, aged cheeses, dairy products, pickled or fermented foods, soy sauce, MSG, chocolate, peanuts, onions, processed foods, citrus fruits, diet sodas containing aspartame, products containing yeast, nitrites contained in cured meats, and seasoned salt.

• Caffeine – Drinking or eating foods that contain caffeine can cause migraines. Items such as coffee, diet sodas, regular sodas, chocolate, tea, and weight loss supplements all contain caffeine. If you are used to caffeine, a sudden withdrawal or reduction in consumption can also lead to migraines.

• Medications – Any drugs or medications that dilate blood vessels can result in a migraine attack. If you suspect your medication is causing your migraines, speak to your doctor about a substitute with the similar effects.

• Stress and tension – Work pressure, relationship issues, conflicts and depression can all trigger off a migraine. Even happy events that are emotionally charged such as a new baby or moving house can increase your chances of developing a migraine. Studies show that it is not the situation that causes the migraine but rather the person’s inability to cope with pressure or change. In order to improve your coping skills and stress management tactics, try alternative methods such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation.

• Sensitivity to smells and lights – Some people are more sensitive than others to strong smells and bright lights. A thing as simple as cooking smells, cigarette smoke, or sunlight can bring on a migraine attack.

• Sexual activity – Research indicates that men are more likely to suffer from a migraine post an orgasm. In much the same way, migraines can be triggered off by other strenuous types of physical activity and exercise due tot eh dilation of blood vessels and tension of muscles.

• Sleep cycles – Sticking to a regular sleep pattern is more important than getting more hours of sleep. Disrupted body rhythms caused by irregular sleeping hours can affect appetite and blood sugar levels. These in turn can lead to migraines.

• Hunger – Skipping meals is never a good idea and if you suffer from migraines, all the more so. Try and keep the gaps between meals short to prevent blood sugar fluctuations and recurring migraine attacks. Supplement your meals with daily multi-vitamins and calcium supplement as well.

• Smoking and overuse of pain medication for headaches can also lead to migraines.

• Any changes in routine – People who suffer from migraines prefer sameness over change. If you are prone to migraines, try and avoid any drastic changes to your normal routine. Aim to sleep and get up at the same time every day, have meals at regular intervals, exercise at the same moderate pace and avoid situations that could result in extra pressure or tension.