Migraines manifest differently in individuals, but common symptoms include intense, throbbing head pain, usually on one side. Many experience nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia). Some also report aura–visual disturbances like flashing lights or blind spots–preceding the headache.
Common Migraine Triggers
Identifying your personal triggers is key to migraine management. Common culprits include stress, changes in sleep patterns, hormonal fluctuations (especially in women), certain foods (aged cheeses, processed meats, chocolate), and weather changes. Dehydration and skipped meals can also contribute.
Less Common, But Noteworthy, Triggers
Beyond the usual suspects, consider less frequent triggers like specific smells (perfumes, strong chemicals), bright lights, intense physical exertion, and even changes in altitude. Keeping a migraine diary to track symptoms and potential triggers helps pinpoint individual patterns.
Understanding Migraine Triggers: A Summary Table
| Dietary | Aged cheeses, processed meats, chocolate, caffeine withdrawal |
| Environmental | Bright lights, strong smells, weather changes, altitude changes |
| Lifestyle | Stress, lack of sleep, irregular meal patterns, dehydration, physical exertion |
| Hormonal | Menstrual cycle changes in women |
