Migraine Headaches

Prevention

You may be able to reduce frequent migraines by avoiding triggers, such as certain foods, stress, and changes in your daily routine, although it is not clear how or why these events lead to migraines. Some common triggers of migraines include:

• Consuming certain substances such as chocolate, monosodium glutamate (MSG), red wine, and caffeine.
• Getting too much or not enough sleep.
• Fasting or skipping meals.
• Changes in the weather or barometric pressure.
• Stress or intense emotions.
• Strong odors or cigarette smoke.
• Bright lights or reflected sunlight.

For more information, see:

Migraines: Identifying and avoiding triggers.

Your doctor may also prescribe drugs to help prevent migraine headaches.

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Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: July 3, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
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