If you suffer from migraines then you know just how painful it can be. You also know how migraines can take over your life and stop you from living when they strike. To get relief from migraines you need to figure out what causes your migraine headaches and then you need to avoid that trigger. To help you figure out what might be causing your own headaches, here’s a look at some of the most common causes of migraines.
Hormonal Changes
While the exact relationship isn’t known, a change in estrogen levels seems to trigger migraines in some women.
Food
Certain types of foods cause migraines in some people. The most common food triggers are red wine, beer, caffeine, chocolate, and processed foods, such as those that contain nitrates (hotdogs and certain lunchmeats) and MSG (monosodium glutamate). Aspartame, used to sweeten beverages, has been linked to migraines. Also, skipping a meal can cause migraines as well.
Stress
Extended periods of extreme stress can also be the cause of migraines.
Sensory Stimuli
Another one of the many causes of migraines is sensory stimuli. Flashing lights, loud noises, or strong scents have been known to cause migraines.
Changes in Sleep Patterns
Going from sleeping at night to sleeping during the day or vice versa can trigger a migraine headache. Migraines can also be triggered by either too much or too little sleep.
Physical Exertion
Sudden periods of exercise can cause migraines in people.
Medication
Almost any medication can cause migraine headaches. It all depends on the medication and your body’s reaction to that medication. If you recently started a medication (or stopped) and you get a migraine then the medication could very well be the cause.
Caffeine
Too much, or sudden withdrawal from, caffeine, can trigger a migraine.
Weather
Changes in weather conditions such as quick temperature or barometric pressure changes can bring on a migraine.
As the medical community continues to gain a better understanding of the causes of migraines, the list of triggers will most likely continue to grow. For now, some of the most common causes of migraines are hormonal changes, food, stress, sensory stimuli, a change in sleep patterns, physical exertion, caffeine, weather changes, and medication. If you suffer from migraines then you should first look at these common causes as the cause of your own migraines. When you find the cause you can then prevent future migraine headaches.
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