Top 7 Causes of Migraines

People who suffer from chronic migraines know that there are some signs indicating that migraine is coming. However, people who suffer from it for the first time experience terrible, sharp, unbearable pain. Here are the top 7 causes of migraines.

7. Stress

Stress is the most common cause of migraines since it is the main trigger for almost 70% of cases. Studies show that there is a direct association between daily stress and migraines. In addition, if you start worrying about migraine attacks, the condition becomes even worse. (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)

6. Sleep Problems

Sleep is important for repairing and renewing your entire body including your brain. When your sleep becomes irregular, your brain becomes more prone to migraines. If sleep problems and migraines persist, the risk of developing a sleep disorder increases. (7, 8, 9, 10, 11)

5. Hormonal Problems

The incidence of migraines in women is three times more than men. 75% of women experience migraine attacks during their monthly menstrual cycles (Menstrual Migraines) due to the changes in progesterone and estrogen levels. (12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19)

4. Alcohol and Caffeine

When it comes to alcohol and caffeine, studies show mixed results. Migraine symptoms may become worse after a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Other people say that their migraine symptoms relieve after drinking coffee or alcohol. (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25)

3. Weather Changes

Weather changes are common migraine triggers that can lead to severe migraine attacks. Storms, extremes of temperatures, and high humidity are examples of weather-related migraine triggers. We have no control over the weather, which makes the problem worse and dangerous for some people who must go out during bad weather. (26, 27, 28, 29, 30)

2. Foods

Histamine-containing foods such as chocolate, cheese, artificial sweeteners, caffeine, and processed meat can trigger migraines easily. Try to stay away from these foods as much as possible. Follow a histamine-free diet to prevent migraine attacks and lower inflammations in general. (31, 32, 33, 34, 35)

1. Dehydration

33% of people suffering from migraines say that dehydration is the main trigger. Some people even got headaches once they feel thirsty. In addition to migraines, dehydration causes dizziness, confusion, poor concentration, and if persists, it can be a medical emergency. (36, 37, 38, 39)