The Migraine and Lifestyle Connection

Everyone experiences an occasional headache. But migraines are something entirely different. Ask any migraine sufferer and they will tell you tales of intense head pain, nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. According to the office of Women’s Health at the Department of Health and Services, migraines affect more than 29 million Americans between the ages of 15 and 55, and they are more common among women than men.

If you are among the 29 million suffering, did you know that certain lifestyle behaviors can trigger the frequency and intensity of your migraines? According to the American Migraine Foundation, here are some common culprits that affect a large number of people living with migraines.

  1. Stress – when your stress is on the rise, so are the chances you will be getting a migraine. If possible, try to remove or reduce the causes of your stress with relaxation, exercise, massage or meditation.
  2. Changes in or an irregular sleep schedule – sleep renews and repairs all parts of the body including the brain. Try to go to bed at the same time every night and aim for 7 – 8 hours of sleep.
  3. Hormones – women are more likely to be affected with migraines during their menstrual cycle. Meet with your physician for information on methods of birth control that may help to stabilize hormone levels and prevent attacks.
  4. Caffeine and Alcohol – although some say caffeine helps prevent migraines, for some sufferers they can trigger them. With both alcohol and caffeine, moderate your intake and know your limits.
  5. Changes in weather – excessive heat and changes in barometric pressure can trigger migraines. You can’t control the weather but you can choose to stay inside if weather isn’t favorable.
  6. Diet – chocolate, cheese and other dairy products, cured meats and foods with histamines or MSG are the biggest culprits. Avoid eating these types of food when possible.
  7. Dehydration – dehydration can cause dizziness, confusion, and can even become a medical emergency. Carrying a water bottle at all times can be helpful.
  8. Light – natural, bright light and fluorescent or flickering bulbs are problematic, making it difficult to spend time outside or be in an office environment. Sunglasses when outside and sitting near a window while inside can be helpful.
  9. Smell – strong smells like perfumes, food, chemicals or gasoline can be detrimental. If you work in an office environment, make your condition known, and don’t be afraid to ask that they refrain from wearing perfume or cologne.
  10. Medication Overuse – Ironically, if you have regular migraine headaches and take acute medication prescribed by your doctor more than 10 days out of a month, it can in itself cause more migraine attacks. See your doctor to help regulate your medication.

Guadalupe Regional Medical Center offers world-class neurology right here in Seguin. Kevin McMahon, MD and Colin Sanner, MD make up our team of expertly trained specialists that can help with your migraines and other head pain issues. For more information or to make an appointment with Dr. McMahon or Dr. Sanner, please call 830.484.4600.