1. Watch the Weather
Surprisingly enough, weather changes can trigger headaches in migraine sufferers. If the humidity or temperature fluctuates dramatically in a short period of time, a migraine headache may come on. If a sufferer exposes himself to very hot or very cold weather, this may also bring on a migraine headache. Sunlight sometimes proves harmful to a migraine patient. Bright sunlight along with artificial sources of glaring light can trigger migraine headaches.
2. Develop Regular Habits
Any changes in a person's regular patterns can cause a migraine headache to surface. If you suffer from migraines, you need to eat and sleep at regular intervals in order to avoid headaches. People that try a fast or attempt to pull an all-nighter can put themselves at risk for a migraine headache. Changes that you have no control over can also prompt a migraine headache. For example, a woman experiences fluctuations in her hormone levels at different times during her monthly cycle. The sudden changes in hormone levels at the start and end of ovulation can bring on a migraine headache.
3. You're So Sensitive
Migraine sufferers develop numerous sensitivities to certain foods and smells. When exposed, they may end up enduring a migraine headache. Research shows that certain products are more likely to trigger an attack. These items include lunch meat, red wine, cheeses, chocolate, artificial sweeteners and foods containing MSG. Strong smelling items can produce a migraine headache in patients as well. A migraine sufferer should avoid cigarette and cigar smoke, household cleaning products, perfumes and air fresheners.
4. Headache Meds May Harm, Not Help
Most migraine headache sufferers use over-the-counter pain relievers to help deal with the pain associated with the condition. When you rely on headache meds to treat a migraine, your body could build up a resistance and this may lead to rebound migraine headaches. Although you can use pain relievers to help deal with the discomfort, stick to the recommended dosage and try to not use them frequently.
5. Stress Pulls the Trigger
During periods of high stress, a migraine patient may experience more frequent incidences of headaches. Although other triggers produce a more obvious reaction, studies have shown that stress can make you prone to migraine headaches. For example, a patient who had a very stressful week in school or at work will likely get a migraine headache that following weekend. People who handle stress better have fewer migraines over the course of a year.
