Migraines can be triggered by numerous factors. Alcohol, stress/anxiety,
smoking, some odors such as perfumes, loud noises and bright lights may all
trigger migraine. Migraine attacks may also be triggered by:
- Caffeine withdrawal
-
Changes in hormone levels during a woman’s menstrual cycle or with the
use of birth control pills
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Exercise or other physical stress
- Missed meals
- Smoking or exposure to smoke
Migraine headaches can be triggered by certain foods. The most common are:
-
Processed, fermented, pickled, or marinated foods, as well as foods that
contain monosodium glutamate (MSG)
- Baked goods, chocolate, nuts, peanut butter, and dairy products
-
Foods containing tyramine, which includes red wine, aged cheese, smoked
fish, chicken livers, figs, and certain beans
- Fruits (avocado, banana, citrus fruit)
- Meats containing nitrates (bacon, hot dogs, salami, cured meats)
- Onions
This list may not include all triggers!