4 Common Migraine Triggers

If you experience migraines, you know how quickly they can disrupt your day. While migraines often seem to strike without warning, identifying your personal triggers can help you prevent or manage future attacks.

At Spinal Diagnostics, we help patients uncover the causes of their chronic headaches and explore effective treatment options. Here are four common migraine triggers to be aware of:

1. Hormonal changes

Fluctuations in estrogen levels can contribute to migraines, especially in women. Many experience migraines during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. Hormonal birth control may also play a role.

If your migraines seem linked to your menstrual cycle or other hormonal shifts, tracking your symptoms and discussing them with a provider is key.

2. Diet and hydration

Certain foods and drinks are known to trigger migraines in some people. These may include:

Aged cheeses
Alcohol (especially red wine)
Processed meats with nitrates
Foods containing MSG or artificial sweeteners

Skipping meals or becoming dehydrated can also increase your risk. Maintaining a consistent eating schedule and drinking plenty of water can help reduce migraine frequency.

3. Stress

Emotional stress is one of the most common migraine triggers. Tension, anxiety, and even the “let down” period after a stressful event can all bring on an episode.

Stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, exercise, and regular sleep can help keep migraines at bay.

4. Environmental factors

Changes in your surroundings can also act as triggers. These include:

Bright or flickering lights
Strong smells (perfume, smoke, chemicals)
Loud noises
Weather changes (barometric pressure drops, humidity)

Keeping a journal to record your environment during a migraine can help you identify patterns and avoid known triggers when possible.

Get relief from migraine pain

If you’re struggling with frequent or severe migraines, contact Spinal Diagnostics today. Our team can help you identify your triggers and find effective, personalized treatments so you can get back to living without pain.

Virtual Physical Therapy: A New Approach to Chronic Pain Care

Virtual Physical Therapy: A New Approach to Chronic Pain Care For millions of people living with back, neck, or joint pain, traveling to in-person therapy appointments can be exhausting or even impossible. That’s why virtual care has become a powerful...

Why Is My Knee Popping?

Why Is My Knee Popping? You’re walking across the room or going for a run when suddenly—pop! That unexpected sound or sensation coming from your knee can be surprising or even concerning. Knee popping, clicking, or cracking noises are common, but when they’re paired...

Non-Surgical Solutions for Nerve Pain Relief

Non-Surgical Solutions for Nerve Pain Relief Living with chronic nerve pain can be exhausting. The burning, tingling, or stabbing sensations in the feet, legs, or back can make even simple daily tasks difficult. While some people rely on prescription medications,...

Telehealth Physical Therapy for Seniors

Telehealth Physical Therapy for Seniors Telehealth has transformed the way healthcare is delivered, and physical therapy is no exception. For many older adults, virtual appointments mean fewer barriers to care and more flexibility. But seniors and their families often...

The Link Between Poor Posture and Jaw Pain

The Link Between Poor Posture and Jaw Pain When most people think about posture, they imagine standing up straight or avoiding slouching at a desk. But posture affects more than just your back and shoulders—it can also influence...

Front of Ankle Pain: Causes & Treatments

Front of Ankle Pain: Causes & Treatments Pain in the front of the ankle or along the inner arch of the foot can be frustrating, especially if it keeps you from walking, running, or exercising comfortably. Whether you’re feeling inner arch foot pain, experiencing a...

Physical Therapy for Cervical Dystonia

Physical Therapy for Cervical Dystonia Cervical dystonia is a neurological condition that causes involuntary muscle contractions in the neck, often resulting in abnormal head posture, pain, and stiffness. Also known as...

Can Physical Therapy Help With Weight Loss and Arthritis?

Can Physical Therapy Help With Weight Loss and Arthritis? Living with arthritis can feel like you’re in a constant balancing act. On one hand, staying active is essential to managing joint pain and maintaining mobility. On the...

Is Walking Good Exercise? Relieve Back & Joint Pain

Is Walking Good Exercise? Relieve Back & Joint Pain Back pain is one of the most common reasons people skip workouts, especially activities like running or jogging. But here’s something many don’t realize—walking may be one of the most effective low-impact...

Your Guide to Low Impact Exercises

Your Guide to Low Impact Exercises Whether you're recovering from an injury, just getting started with fitness, or simply prefer joint-friendly movement, low impact exercises are an excellent way to stay active and get results. From apartment gym workouts to...