What are the triggers?

It’s not always possible to identify a trigger, but the following things may cause migrainous headaches in some people:

  • Dietary factors- cheese, chocolate, red wine, citrus fruits, and foods containing an additive called tyramine.
  • Excessive dieting.
  • Psychological factors- stress/anxiety, depression and sleep disturbances.
  • Environmental triggers- bright lights, loud noises or strong smells.
  • Medications- for example HRT and the contraceptive pill.
  • Menstruation and the menopause.

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