Migraine is a type of headache characterized by throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. Migraine headaches are often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can last between 4 and 72 hours and can disrupt daily activities.
However, what is more important is that migraines are influenced by various triggering factors that can be very different for each individual.
Migraine Factors That Are Often Unrecognized
Did you know that many migraine triggers stem from seemingly trivial and often unnoticed factors? Here are some migraine triggers:
1. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes, especially in women, can trigger migraines. These changes often occur during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause. Fluctuations in estrogen, which occur during the menstrual cycle, can cause chemical changes in the brain that trigger migraine attacks.
This often goes unnoticed because many women do not associate their migraines with hormonal changes, as migraine attacks often occur a few days before or during menstruation, which is considered normal.
2. Weather and Climate Change
Drastic changes in temperature, high humidity, or strong winds can trigger migraines. This is because weather changes can affect air pressure and oxygen levels in the body, which ultimately affect the brain.
Many people don't realize that their migraines are triggered by weather or climate change because they focus more on internal factors such as sleep patterns or quality and stress.
3. Poor Sleep Quality
Insufficient or excessive sleep can trigger migraines. Poor sleep quality can disrupt the nervous system and trigger chemical reactions in the brain that trigger migraine attacks.
Not everyone associates migraines with sleep quality. Many believe that adequate sleep is sufficient to prevent migraines, but both too little and too much sleep can be triggers.
4. Certain Foods and Drinks
Certain foods and drinks, such as chocolate, cheese, caffeine, or foods containing MSG, can trigger migraines in some people. This is because certain substances in food can alter serotonin levels in the brain, which are associated with migraine triggers.
Not many people realize that certain foods can trigger migraines. Seemingly ordinary foods like cheese or chocolate can actually be triggers without you realizing it.
5. Stress and Anxiety
Stress is one of the most common migraine triggers. When the body is under stress, the brain releases stress hormones like cortisol, which can trigger physical changes in the brain that lead to migraine attacks.
Migraines often occur after periods of severe stress or prolonged anxiety, although many people are unaware of the close link between the two.
6. Use of Certain Medications
Some medications, such as overuse of painkillers, can trigger migraine attacks or worsen symptoms. These medications can affect the nervous system and trigger migraines.
Sometimes migraine sufferers do not realize that the frequency of their migraines may be related to the use of certain medications, especially those taken to relieve headaches.
7. The Effect of Bright Lights or Light
Sensitivity to bright light is one of the main symptoms of migraines. Excessive light, especially from electronic screens or fluorescent lights, can trigger migraine attacks in some people.
Exposure to bright light, especially from digital devices, is often not recognized as a trigger because it has become an integral part of daily routines.
Recognize and Control Migraine Triggers
Recognizing migraine triggers is an important first step in managing this condition. Once you've identified your triggers, it's important to make lifestyle changes that can reduce the frequency of migraine attacks, such as:
- Managing stress with relaxation exercises
- Maintain consistent sleep patterns and quality
- Avoid foods or drinks that can trigger migraines
- Use eye protection or reduce exposure to bright light
- Adjust the room temperature to make it more comfortable
If you experience frequent or very bothersome migraines, it is best to consult a neurologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
The article was written by Dr. Nysia Priscilla Angga Kusuma, Sp.N (Neurology Specialist Doctor at EMC Cibitung Hospital).