What's Really Triggering Migraine Pain? Researchers Identify More Than 100 Potential Triggers

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Local 4 Dr. Frank McGeorge reported when it comes to triggering migraines, red wine, MSG or certain cheeses are just the beginning.

Researchers have identified more than 100 things that may trigger a migraine in some people. Experts said the trick is to figure out what sets off headaches in specific individuals to try and stop a headache before it starts.

Shifts in weather are a known migraine trigger including extreme heat or cold, rises and falls in humidity and changes in barometric pressure.

High altitudes, smog and airplane travel can all be problematic. The same goes for bright lights, loud noises or strong odors.
For women, changes in estrogen levels are often to blame. Birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, menopause and the natural fluctuations of the menstrual cycle can all affect estrogen levels in a way that might trigger a migraine.

Stress, too much or too little sleep, and even over-exercising can also touch off a horrible headache.

Numerous foods and beverages are potential migraine triggers. Some migraine sufferers react to several, while others aren't bothered by any of them.

Experts said identifying personal triggers might make a difference. A recent study found people who avoided their trigger foods had a third fewer migraines.

Red wine's effect is a well known, but beer, champagne and darker liquors may all be problematic.

Caffeine is tricky. It's often used to treat headaches, but in some people, too much may actually trigger migraines.

Fresh-baked bread smells delicious, but the yeast is a trigger for some. Sourdough bread is especially problematic.

While fruits and vegetables are good for general health, they're not always good for headaches.

Onions, pea pods, sauerkraut, lentils and certain beans including lima, Fava, and navy beans are all potential migraine triggers.

So are citrus fruits and juices, pineapple, bananas, raspberries, red plums, papayas, figs, dates and avocados

Raisins and dried fruit preserved with sulfites also make the list.

Chocolate is a common trigger, although white chocolate is generally safe.

Nuts and nut butters are potential triggers, as are aged cheeses such as blue cheese, brie, cheddar, Feta, mozzarella, parmesan and Swiss.

Yogurt, sour cream and buttermilk may also cause problems.

In the meat department, the list of potential triggers is long, including hot dogs, sausage, salami, pepperoni, lunch meats, beef jerky, bacon, smoked or pickled fish and anchovies.

Some people report aspartame, also known as Nutrasweet, triggers their migraines.

http://www.clickondetroit.com/health/28398925/detail.html

Proof that so much as breathing can trigger migraine is some of us!

I know what you mean - when I added this I thought it might have been easier to list what did not trigger lol