Migraine headaches are experienced by up to 18 percent of the population and occur more frequently in women under age 40, according to a 2002 article in The New England Journal of Medicine entitled "Migraine--Current Understanding and Treatment." They are characterized by throbbing head pain and are usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and/or sound. Migraines are often precipitated by various internal and external factors, and the identification of these triggers can enhance your physician's ability to treat your migraines.
Food Triggers
Alcohol (mostly red wine), chocolate, caffeine, cheese and monosodium glutamate (MSG) have been linked to an increased frequency of migraine headaches in susceptible individuals. According to Dr. David Buchholz, a neurologist at Johns Hopkins University, foods containing large amounts of the chemical tyramine, such as aged cheeses, certain fruits (especially overripe and dried fruit) and soy products should be avoided when possible. A detailed food diary is often recommended for migraine patients in order to identify any potential food triggers.
Hormonal Triggers
According to the Archives of Internal Medicine, up to 60 percent of female migraine sufferers report a link to the menstrual cycle. Declining estrogen levels are associated with the observed increased frequency of migraines during the week prior to and the week of menses. Additionally, sources of stress from such internal factors as sleep deprivation, low blood sugar levels and dehydration have also been identified as migraine triggers for some individuals.
Environmental Triggers
Sources of external stress related to daily existence can trigger migraines, although it is unlikely the sole contributor to headache onset. Changing weather conditions, including barometric pressure fluctuations, hot/humid temperatures and altitude changes can precipitate migraine attacks in some individuals. Strong smells, such as perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products have also been linked to the onset of migraines. Flashing lights and glare can induce migraines as well.
References
- The New England Journal: Migraine---Current Understanding and Treatment
- The Archives of Internal Medicine: The Diagnostic Value of Historical Features in Primary Headache Syndromes
- NPR.org: What's Triggering Your Migraine
- The Archives of Internal Medicine: Effects of the Menstrual Cycle on Medical Disorders
- American Academy of Ophthalmology: Treatment of migraine and tension-type headache
