What Causes a Migraine?

Migraines are a common, yet debilitating neurological condition affecting around one billion people worldwide. While the exact cause of migraines is still unknown, there are a number of potential triggers that could lead to an episode. From environmental factors to lifestyle choices, understanding and avoiding potential headache triggers can help to reduce the number of migraines experienced.

Common Environmental Triggers

Environmental factors can often be the cause of many migraine headaches, making it important to be aware of potential triggers in the immediate surroundings. Bright lights, loud noises, strong odors and other sensations can be migraine instigators. Changes in barometric pressure, such as those experienced during a storm, can also cause an episode. Migraines can be triggered by the body’s natural rhythms, such as changes in sleep or the time of day, with fatigue or missed meals being common causes.

Lifestyle Triggers

Many lifestyle choices and habits can be potential triggers of migraines, making it important to consider if any of these habits could be the underlying cause. Alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking can often lead to an episode, as can skipping meals or eating certain foods. Caffeine is both a stimulant and a migraine trigger, depending on how much is consumed. Stress and emotional distress can be large contributors to migraines, as can physical exertion and medication overuse.

Hormonal Triggers

Many things relating to hormones can be a source of migraines, including fluctuations in hormones during female reproductive cycles. In fact, the most prevalent type of migraine headache is the menstrual migraine, which is thought to be caused by a drop in the levels of estrogen and progesterone before the start of a woman’s period. Many women with migraines also experience premenstrual syndrome or PMS that can worsen their symptoms. Birth control medications or medications designed to treat hormone imbalances can also lead to migraines.

Migraines are a complex and debilitating condition that affects many people throughout their lives. While the exact cause of migraines is still unknown, understanding the different potential triggers can help to reduce the number of episodes experienced. From environmental and lifestyle triggers to hormonal fluctuations, avoiding or managing these potential instigators can help to reduce migraine episodes and lessen the burden of this condition.