Common Triggers

Scientists have discovered at least a dozen genes related to migraine. Despite the different genetics, most people with migraine share the same or similar triggers. “And they’re almost always related to physical, environmental or emotional stress,” Dr. Bernard says.

People with migraines have highly sensitive nervous systems that react strongly to internal and external stress. “Anything that stresses the body can bring on a migraine attack.” Dr. Bernard says. These are the most common physical, emotional and environmental triggers:

• Hormones: The most common physical-stress trigger for women is the drop in estrogen and progesterone that happens with every menstrual cycle. There’s a myth that low testosterone levels can cause migraines in men, but research doesn’t support this. “Less than 10% of men get migraines,” Dr. Bernard says.
• Sleep: Sleep is another common physical stress trigger. “Not getting enough sleep, getting too much sleep or not sleeping well can all bring on migraines,” Dr. Bernard says. “It’s easy to see how not getting enough sleep could cause a headache, but many people don’t realize that too much sleep can also lead to an attack.”
• Hunger and dehydration: As with sleep, sticking to a regular eating schedule helps keep attacks at bay. Not drinking enough water, skipping meals or eating at unpredictable times stresses your body and can bring on headaches.
• Environmental factors: Outside conditions also cause physical stress. Weather changes are a prime example. Barometric pressure changes, bright sunlight, extreme heat or cold, and smoke from cigarettes or wildfires can all lead to a migraine. Airplane travel, with its changing pressures, can also bring on a migraine.
• Emotional stressors: Feeling overwhelmed from school, work, family or life events can flip the migraine switch. Adopting good stress-reduction habits can help — such as regular exercise, yoga or meditation. Mindfulness-based stress reduction classes can be helpful, especially if you’re dealing with chronic pain and stress.

Tracking your daily activities is the surest way to spot your triggers. There are migraine trackers, printable diaries and apps for your phone that make it easy. Share what you’ve recorded with your doctor. This information is a valuable part of creating a personalized care plan.

Frequent migraines can be exhausting and discouraging but relief is available. “There are preventive medications that work well for most people,” Dr. Bernard says. “And with good care, you can spend much more of your life migraine free.”