Causes of Migraine Headache
Till date, the cause behind migraine is unknown. It can be caused by a series of reactions in the central nervous system due to changes in the body or in the environment. Often it is found in multiple members with a family history of the disorder. This suggests that migraine sufferers may inherit sensitivity to triggers that causes a migraine attack.
Migraine Triggers
A migraine trigger is any stimulus that initiates a migraine attack. Commonly identified migraine triggers include:
- Alcohol
- Environmental factors:
- Weather
- Altitude
- Time zone changes
- Exertion
- Foods items that contain:
- Caffeine (e.g., coffee, chocolate)
- Monosodium glutamate (MSG; used to enhance flavour in several processed foods and in Chinese preparations)
- Nitrates (found in processed foods)
- Artificial sweeteners (e.g., aspartame)
- Glare, contrasting patterns
- Hormonal changes in women
- Hunger
- Lack of sleep
- Medications (over-the-counter and prescription)
- Perfume
- Stress
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: January 15, 2010
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Articles in Migraine headache