What Triggers Migraines?

Triggers

Certain things may trigger migraine attacks in some people. Some of these triggers are:

  • Certain foods or drinks, such as cheese, chocolate, citrus fruit (oranges, grapefruit, lemons, lime, and others), caffeine, and alcohol.
  • Stress.
  • Change in behavior, such as too much or too little sleep, missing a meal, or a change in diet.
  • Hormone changes in women, such as during monthly menstrual periods.

You may be able to prevent migraine attacks or make them come less often if you understand what triggers your attacks. Keeping a headache diary may help you identify and monitor the possible triggers that cause your migraine. Once you identify the triggers, you and your doctor can change your lifestyle to avoid those triggers.