If you’re experiencing more migraine attacks, it could be because of stress.
But there are many other migraine triggers to know about.
So, if youve noticed an uptick in migraine attacks, stress could be the culprit.
But, the complete list of migraine triggers is long and very much based on your unique makeup.
Stephen Silberstein, MD, is the director of the Headache Center at Jefferson University in Philadelphia.
But so many other things can be triggers.
Adelene Jann, MD, is a migraine specialist and clinical assistant professor in the Department of Neurology at NYU Langone Health
She explains that these changes in routine trigger hormonal changes and neuropeptide changes in the brain.
Lets back up, what exactly is migraine?
The characteristics are moderate to severe, often throbbing.
Genetics also play a role.
Dr. Jann says women are more likely to experience migraine than men.
Dr. Hindiyeh adds that migraine is hereditary.
With that said, to prevent migraine attacks, its important to understand your triggers.
Explore the list of migraine triggers, below.
Heres a list of potential migraine triggers related to changes in routine
1.
Adelene Jann, MD, is a migraine specialist and clinical assistant professor in the Department of Neurology at NYU Langone Health
Dehydration
Dehydration is a big one, especially in the summer when its hot, says Dr. Hindiyeh.
To check that youre getting enough water,consider setting reminders or investing in a big water bottle.
Changes in weather
Many feel that they can predict the weather with their migraines.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
Skipping a meal
Skipping a meal can be a big trigger as well, says Dr. Hindiyeh.
We have people really routinely eat their meals at the same time every day.
Changes in sleep
Changes in sleep are another very, very big trigger, says Dr. Hindiyeh.
Its really about consistency.
Hormonal changes
Menstrual cycles can also play a huge role.
She says many experience more frequent migraines around their period.
For two-thirds of women, after menopause is when things actually get a lot better.
Think about Advil or Tylenol.
You think Oh yeah, I can use that every once in a while.
Life has really shifted to a model where we have to use those constantly.
I really recommend that people take breaks from it at least once every hour.
Getting up and moving away from your screens.
So we know that daily aerobic exercise will help prevent migraines.
Being thrown off that routine can be a big, big trigger as well.
How to identify your triggers and get help
Migraine attacks can often have more than one trigger.
Dr. Jann recommends tracking your migraines to attempt to pinpoint triggers.
The diary can be done on paper or on app on your phone.
If the thought of tracking your migraines stresses you out, Dr. Hindiyeh says just being self-aware can help.
There are things like yoga, biofeedback, and meditation, says Dr. Silberstien.
They enable you to stabilize your brain, they can actually relieve and prevent migraine.
Be sure to check in with your doctor and explore all of your options.
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