Migraines are headaches that are caused by a decreased blood flow to the brain and increased pressure on the blood vessels. They are often preceded by an "aura," or a sense that the headache is coming on. Some people also experience visual changes prior to the headache. These headaches often are accompanied by a sense of nausea and occasionally vomiting. Most sufferers feel better lying still in a dark, quiet room. Although the exact mechanism of migraine headaches is not yet known, migraines are often triggered by particular lifestyle factors, including diet, environment (indoor and outdoor), medications, sleep habits, and hormonal changes. Try to keep a diary of your headaches compared to your lifestyle, and look for a pattern to discern your own particular triggers. Knowing what to avoid can change your pattern of attacks. The triggers listed here are the most frequent ones that migraine sufferers should pay attention to.
Food Triggers
o Chocolate
o Citrus fruits
o Tomatoes
o Preserved meats
o Dairy products
o Nuts
o Coffee
o Red wine
o Alcohol
o Sulfites
o Preservatives/flavor enhancers/MSG
o Salt
o Olive Oil
o Coconut and coconut oil (includes suntan lotions)
o Aspartame
Environmental Triggers
o Glare
o Loud or repetitive noise
o Strong odors (perfume)
o Certain weather conditions, such as dry winds or heat
o Changes in the weather
o Altitude changes
o Chemicals such as insecticides
o Air pollution
o Second hand smoke
o Fluorescent lighting
o Flickering lights (computer monitors)
Physiological Triggers
o Stress
o Exercise
o Hormonal changes
o Birth control pills
o Too much or too little sleep
o Medicines such as antihistamines, aspirin, or diuretics
o Hypoglycemia and missing meals
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