- Avoid loud noises and bright lights
Loud noises, flashing lights (for example, strobe lights), and sensory stimulation are common triggers for migraine headaches. These stimuli may be difficult to avoid, but knowing that they occur in certain situations and environments could help. These include
driving at night
being in movie theaters
attending clubs or crowded venues
experiencing glare from the sun
Take breaks from the TV or computer screen to rest your eyes, and adjust the brightness levels on digital screens. Pay close attention to all visual and audio disturbances, and make sure you can easily avoid them if a migraine arises.
- Pay attention to food choices
Certain foods and drinks can initiate headaches, such as:
chocolate
red wine
processed meats
sweeteners
cheese
Know which foods and additives bring about a headache for you and learn to avoid them. Foods and drinks with caffeine or alcohol — especially red wines or champagne — are common triggers. Limit the amount you consume during the day, or avoid them altogether if need be.
- Keep a headache diary
By keeping a diary, you can easily identify your specific migraine triggers. Here are examples of the things you could keep note of:
what you eat and drink
your exercise routine and schedule
the weather
strong feelings and emotions you may be having
your medications and their side effects
times and severity of your headaches
This can help you see a pattern in your migraine occurrences and will make avoiding one easier.
- Beware of hormonal changes
Hormones play a significant role in terms of migraines. Many women tend to experience more migraine headaches during, or just before, their menstrual period. Women should be especially vigilant with their diet and exercise habits during this time. This will ease symptoms before they begin. According to the Mayo Clinic, oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may increase the frequency and severity of migraines. Some women may find relief by switching to another form of birth control, while others may find they have fewer migraines while taking birth control.
- Take supplements
Although migraines can be treated with or without medications, it’s important to get the proper nutrients. Taking certain herbs and minerals may help ward off migraines. Magnesium deficiency has been shown to contribute to the onset of migraines, so taking a daily supplement may help reduce outbursts. However, the Mayo Clinic reports that the results from these studies have been mixed. Talk with your doctor about herbal remedies and other nonprescription supplements that may ease your symptoms.