Migraine Trigger Factors & Lifestyle Changes to Manage Chronic Migraine

Migraine is neurological disease characterized by the recurrent episodes of headache. Migraine is described as throbbing, pounding pain, and is often associated with debilitating symptoms.

Most of us are aware about this chronic headache condition, but not many know the exact trigger factors behind these headaches, and how we can manage them. An episode of migraine generally lasts from 2 to 72 hours; even a slight movement & coughing can elevate the pain.

As per neurologist doctor in Delhi Dr. Mukesh Kumar Migraine is  the most common kind of neurological disease, and have a  huge impact on day to day functioning of the patient. 

What are Trigger Factors ?

Stress - Many people find that migraine attacks are significantly linked with stress induced knots in our neck, back, and shoulder area. These points can cause direct or referred pain, For example stressed muscles in neck can cause pain in our head. More than 70% cases are Stress induced Migraine a key Trigger Factor.

Sleep pattern changes or Irregular Sleep – The relationship between Migraine and Sleep is very common. As sleep rejuvenates the body cells , any disturbance in sleep pattern may lead to Severe Migraine attack.

Hormonal Changes – This happened during the menstrual period times and and 75% women finds migraine attack during this time.

Caffeine and Alcohol – A cup of coffee or a glass of Red wine trigger the Migraine attack in many Patients.Along with the other variant of alcohol are the culprit as well.

Change in weather – A very common Trigger Factor causes the Migraine like Excessive Heat , Excessive Humidity 

DIET  -There is list of Foods  known to trigger a migraine attack, the most common ones being foods that contain histamine and MSG, chocolate, cheese and other dairy products, artificial sweeteners (e.g. aspartame), caffeine, cured meats, and anything with a strong smell.

Light – Photophobia is the main culprit to many patients where they can’t tolerate the natural light.

Smell –Some pungent smells or odors may trigger Migraine factor to severe headaches. 

Dehydration – Another major factor for Migraine is dehydration .

Medicine overuse – Using Migraine reliving tablets for too long may cause more Migraine attacks.

There are many migraine trigger, but one specific cause affecting certain area is known as trigger point. These can vary from patient to patient. In advance cases there can be many trigger points inducing the migraine attack.

Neurology specialist Dr. Mukesh Kumar further suggested eliminating trigger factors can certainly reduce the episode of migraine disease.

Risk Factors 

Experts are still determining the exact trigger factors behind the causes, and complexity of migraine. There are certain things and factors which can make people more prone to migraine attack. Dr. Mukesh says, family history like genetics can play huge role in the occurrence of this disease.  .

Lifestyle Changes to Follow

Lifestyle changes significantly help in reducing the recurrent episodes of migraine headache. Dr. Mukesh Kumar suggested avoid triggering foods like coffee and alcohol, Include healthy food, and further avoid skipping meals. 

Establish a regular sleep routine,Leading a stress free life & preventing it can reduce the severity of migraine. By incorporating healthy habits one can set off the migraine and its trigger. 

Keeping a note of risk & triggering factors is best way to finding the right treatment for your migraine, it can also help your neurologist to find the best solution for your condition.