Certain factors have been identified as having the potential to “trigger” migraine; however, the way in which these factors are related to a migraine attack is not understood. Triggers may not be a factor in all patients with migraine. In fact, different triggers may affect different people at different times. To help you in discussions with your doctor, the following is a list of some possible migraine triggers:

Foods:

• Aged cheeses (such as cheddar, Brie, Stilton)
• Foods with nitrates (luncheon meats, bacon, sausages, hot dogs, salami)
• Onions
• Chocolate
• MSG (found in Chinese food, packaged soups and stews, gravy mixes, meat tenderizers)
• Alcoholic beverages (especially red wine)

Poststress:
You may think that stress causes migraine, but often the opposite is true. Migraines are more common when stress is over, at times such as vacations or on weekends.

Ovulation or menstruation:
These occur as a consequence of hormone fluctuations, which may bring about a migraine in some women.

Caffeine withdrawal:
Abruptly cutting caffeine from your diet may trigger a migraine.

Medications:
Some drugs may trigger a migraine.

Environmental changes:
In some patients, a drop in barometric pressure may trigger an attack, as can high temperatures, humidity, or rain—even bright lights, loud noises, smoke, or fumes, as well as strong odors or changes in altitude.

Skipping meals:
Skipping a meal can lower your body’s blood sugar, which may trigger a migraine.

Changes in sleep patterns:
Too much sleep (or too little) has been associated with migraine.