WHAT ARE TRIGGERS?
Migraine headaches are very painful and can occur anytime and anywhere. Millions of people suffer these debilitating headaches all over the world. Migraines are characterized by pain in the head, which could be throbbing and annoying to severe, coupled with an aura, vomiting, nausea, weakness and sometimes anxiety, sweating and fatigue. Nobody knows the direct cause of migraines and there is no cure for this neurological disorder.
A lot of research has been underway in the possible causes of migraines. Some of these causes are what they call “triggers”, which are actually anything that would stimulate the onset of an attack. In order for a person to be acquainted with what might bring on an attack, a written diary of what foods are eaten, places visited, activities engaged, people seen and routines performed daily, should be studied. Knowing what triggers your migraines are very important so you can avoid them and reduce the tendency of having them.
Some common triggers are:
1. Emotional stress and tension due to loss of a job, financial worries, serious illness, etc.
2. Changes in the weather.
3. Hormonal changes due to menstruation, pregnancy or menopause.
4. Skipping meals.
5. Sensitivity to bright lights, flickering lights, sunlight through leaves.
6. Loud noises, loud music, shouting and explosive noises like balloons popping, fireworks, gunshots or car backfires.
7. Smoking.
8. Changes in the sleeping pattern.
9. Certain foods.
10. Caffeine, too much or not enough.
11. Chocolate.
12. Alcohol.
13. Aged cheese.
Some other triggers not well known are food additives and chemicals such as tyramine, which is in wines, cheese, alcoholic drinks and some processed meats. Food preservatives such as nitrites and nitrates as well as MSG found in processed meats will trigger migraines in people sensitive to these.
HOW TO AVOID TRIGGERS
The best way to not have migraines is to avoid what triggers them. Some methods are:
1. Writing down what you eat and drink at the onset of your migraine. If a pattern is noticeable then avoid that food or beverage.
2. Eat meals at the same time and regularly.
3. Stay off caffeine.
4. Develop good sleeping habits. Getting enough sleep is also needed because being tired could trigger a migraine.
5. Exercise and taking care not to overdo it.
6. Cope with stress. Counseling, massaging or relaxing activities are good. Anything to de-stress your life.
Talking to your doctor about other ways to avoid migraine triggers would also be helpful. Just remember, be positive and know you are not alone. One day a cure for migraines might be found, maybe tomorrow.
Tags: constipation, Depression, emotional stress, Fatigue, migraine triggers, strange food cravings, triggers
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