A trigger is something that starts a migraine attack.

COMMON MIGRAINE TRIGGERS

This list will help you identify some triggers to prevent future attacks.  

FOOD AND DRINK

About 20-30 % of migraines are affected by food/drink such as:

• Aspartame
• Alcohol (especially dark beverages such as red wine, brandy, scotch and beer)
• Caffeinated drinks (Coffee, tea, hot chocolate)
• Cheese (especially cheddar)
• Chocolate
• Citrus Fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits)
• Cured Meats (hot dogs, bacon)
• Dairy products (yogurt, milk, butter, aged cheese)
• Fatty or fried food
• Homemade bread
• MSG (Monosodium Glutamate)
• Peanut butter or other nuts
• Pizza
• Seafood (various types)

ENVIRONMENT

An environmental trigger is anything that surrounds you physically, such as:

• Weather:
  • Bright sunlight, especially glare
  • Cold, strong wind
  • Drizzly or overcast skies
  • Low barometric pressure
  • Sudden change in climate
• Lifestyle & Stress:
  • Allergens (ragweed, dust)
  • Bright, flashing or flickering lights (oncoming headlights, theaters and night-clubs)
  • Change in eating and sleeping habits (missing meals, too much or too little sleep)
  • Computer monitors
  • Florescent lights
  • High altitudes
  • Loud sounds
  • Over exertion (too much work/stress)
  • Pollution
  • Poor Ventilation 
  • Smoking (including second hand smoke)
  • Strong odours

HORMONES

Experts believe that estrogen, a female hormone, is one reason why women have more migraines.  Changes in estrogen can be caused by:

• Birth control pills
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Menstruation
• Pre-menopause
• Puberty