Multiple studies clearly demonstrate triggers in episodic migraine, often related to change in homeostasis or environment, according to a recent investigation. Furthermore, many common migraine triggers are not easily modifiable, and avoiding triggers may not be realistic. However, healthy lifestyle choices such as exercise, adequate sleep, stress management, and eating regularly may prevent triggers and transformation to chronic migraine over time. Multiple migraine attack triggers have been established based on patient surveys, diary studies, and clinical trials. Key points include:
- Stress, menstrual cycle changes, weather changes, sleep disturbances, alcohol, and other foods are among the most common factors mentioned.
- Clinical studies have also verified that fasting, premenstrual periods in women, “letdown” after stress, and most likely low barometric pressures are migraine triggers.
- Premonitory symptoms such as neck pain, fatigue, and sensitivity to lights, sounds, or odors may mimic triggers.
Marmura MJ. Triggers, protectors, and predictors in episodic migraine. Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2018;22:81. doi:10.1007/s11916-018-0734-0.