5 Migraine Triggers to Be Aware Of

Although the exact cause of migraines is unknown, they seem to be triggered by several different factors, such as genetics, the environment, foods, and medications. Knowing in advance what triggers your migraines can help you reduce their frequency and improve your quality of life. When migraines occur, they can cause debilitating pain and severe side effects that last anywhere from a few hours up to several days. Because many migraine sufferers are unaware of what triggers their migraines, it can catch them off guard and inhibit their social life and productivity at work.

Dr. Cody Doyle provides Roanoke migraine relief via a variety of treatments, including lifestyle adjustments, diet, and chiropractic care. If you are interested in learning more, please continue reading, or contact Doyle Chiropractic today online or by calling 817-767-5430 to schedule your consultation.

1. Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in hormones seem to trigger migraines in women. Many women with a history of migraines have been able to notice a frequency in headaches before or during their menstrual cycle. This may be due to a plunge in progesterone and estrogen levels. Fluctuating hormone levels can also occur during pregnancy, menopause, or as a result of oral contraceptives and hormone replacement, worsening migraines.

2. Your Diet

Certain foods, additives, and drinks have been known to trigger migraines in individuals. Although each person is effected differently, research has shown that the below foods seem to be a trigger for migraines:

• Additives, such as MSG and yeast extract
• Aged cheeses
• Processed meats
• Salty foods
• Aspartame
• Alcohol
• Highly caffeinated beverages
• Chocolate

By keeping a journal of what you eat for meals, you may be able to narrow down even more specifically what is causing your migraines. Poor nutrition and skipping meals can also trigger attacks, which is why it’s important to maintain a healthy and nutritious diet for each meal.

3. Stress

Stress is a normal part of daily life, and our bodies are designed to help filter the side effects. However, when stress levels remain consistently high, the body is not equipped to flush out the high levels of cortisol fast enough. When stress persists, it can cause migraines and other illnesses. Certain individuals respond to stress differently. Common causes of stress include:

• Traffic
• Marriage
• Moving
• Death of a loved one
• Divorce
• Legal problems
• Job loss
• Deadlines
• Financial difficulties
• Confrontational environments
• Illness

People who drive to work in high amounts of traffic, only to walk into a stressful environment, may find that migraines occur more frequently. Managing your stress can help reduce migraines.

4. Smells and Sounds

Certain sensory stimuli can induce migraines. While the sun or bright lights may trigger migraines in some individuals, others may be affected by strong odors, such as fragrances, secondhand smoke, and paint. When a migraine occurs, observe your surroundings to get a better idea of what triggered your migraine. Were you at a loud concert? Did you sit outside a restaurant near smokers? Did walking into the perfume section of a retail store immediately cause a headache?

5. Weather Changes

Some individuals find that dramatic shifts in the weather, such as high winds, a drop in temperature, or a shift in barometric pressure can prompt a migraine. Being aware of incoming cool fronts or rains ahead of time can help you be better prepared, in addition to undergoing migraine relief treatments.

Have Chronic Migraines?

If you are currently experiencing chronic headaches and migraines, Dr. Doyle can offer migraine relief at our Roanoke practice to help alleviate your discomfort. You may find that by making a few lifestyle adjustments and implementing acupuncture and chiropractic care can reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. To schedule your consultation, contact our office online or give us a call at (817) 767-5430.