Migraines are often characterized as intense, repetitive headaches. The symptoms vary from person to person, but there are four general stages of a migraine--onset, aura, headache and resolution. Histamine, the body's response to an allergic reaction, forces blood vessel dilation that induces head pain, according to the Wellness Center. As you become more aware of the allergens that instigate your migraines, you can arrange your lifestyle to avoid some of the triggers.
Food Allergens
A clinical trial that focused on patients with common recurring migraines under an elimination diet was published in the Lancet. Products containing wheat were the most widespread food allergen to cause migraines at 78 percent followed by orange and eggs at 65 and 45 percent, respectively. Tea and coffee were migraine triggers for 40 percent of the patients. The clinicians suggest this may be due to caffeine content rather than the tea or coffee itself. Non-caffeinated beverages were not tested as a source for migraine triggers. However, chocolate, milk, corn and yeast were also find to be migraine triggers are lower percentages. If you believe that you any of these food allergens may be triggers for your migraines, keep a detailed journal of the food you eat and when your migraines occur to narrow down the possible suspects.
Seasonal Allergens
Dr. Daniel More, a board certified allergist, states that people with allergies are "approximately 14 times more likely to report migraine headaches compared to those without allergies." The Mayo Clinic lists pollen as the most common seasonal allergy although weeds and grasses are also prevalent. These allergens contribute to hay fever, which can also include migraines as a symptom. Limit contact with season allergies by immediately removing any clothing worn outdoors as soon as you re-enter work or home. Windy days will make it more difficult to avoid contact with allergens. If you suffer from severe migraines due to allergies, wear a mask around your nose and mouth whenever you go outside.
Environmental Allergens
Environmental allergens are usually present year round. However, you should be able to better control your environment to avoid these triggers. For instance, pet dander, dust mites and strong smells are common migraine triggers. Cleaning products with high bleach content or strong perfumes are the most common forms of smells that produce an allergic reaction that instigate migraines.
