Navigating a World Full of Triggers

By Holly Harding

1 min read

Most people living with migraine have more than one trigger that causes an attack. Indeed, many of us have countless triggers. From lights, sounds, smells, foods, drinks, and hormones, to weather, stress, sleep, and more – the world can feel alive with things waiting to make us sick for days.

How do we prevent attacks through triggers?

In this video, our contributor, Holly, discusses which triggers are avoidable and what situations we can forecast in order to prevent attacks before they hit.

In the comment section below please share your experiences with how you handle triggers so we can learn from you.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Migraine.com team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
As always, great information!! Hope you are doing as well as can be today! Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team
garyspike1 Member
My largest trigger is aspartame. It is easy to avoid since I haven't had a diet soda in 16 years since my first neurology appointment. I am also a recovering alcoholic since 12/27/2011 so I no longer confuse a migraine with a hangover. Other things are much more difficult. I can have a small amount of chocolate or peanuts, but I cannot eat a dozen Reese's peanut butter cups or I should just dial 911. Sinus issues in spring when trees bloom & in fall when ragweed blooms also trigger migraines. Thankfully, my acupuncture prevents sinus infections since my last one Sept. 2014. It has certainly been progress not perfection with my migraines.
1. Rebecca C Moderator
 <inline-mention username="jkrosner" user-id="3772638"/> I understand. Aspartame seems to be everywhere now. I also find food additives a hindrance rather an an advantage when it comes to our diet and meals. Here is a great article with some interesting facts - <a href='https://migraine.com/blog/aspartame-a-potential-trigger-for-migraines' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/blog/aspartame-a-potential-trigger-for-migraines</a> I hope you continue to avoid the additives and have more pain-free days than not. Thoughtfully, Rebecca (Team member)
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="jkrosner" user-id="3772638"/> So true! Thanks for this. Warmly - Holly (team member)
garyspike1 Member
Thanks for the kind words, Holly. The biggest challenge my neurologist and I have is controlling stress. She says, "80% of migraines are caused by stress." But life as a single dad of 2 teenagers = stress! The food triggers are brutal too. A friend has orange juice as a trigger. Another friend has caffeine as a trigger while I find relief from caffeine. It's a constant battle. Thanks for all you do to help migraine sufferers. You ROCK!
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="garyspike1" user-id="3743390"/> Thank YOU for the kind words. And yes, my goodness, parenting two kids as a single parent is stressful. Mine are now officially adults but still require plenty of parenting. I feel for you! And yes - so interesting how triggers for some are the same things that help others. No two people with migraine are alike- unfortunately, that's what makes finding a solution more of a challenge. It's a very complex neurological disease for which there are no easy answers. So glad you're with us, Gary. Please keep in touch. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
dinamay Member
Bright light used to be one of my main triggers, so I wore dark sunglasses a lot. Flashing lights will still start a migraine any time, with 
1. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="dinamay" user-id="3907903"/> I hear you and you're not alone in having flashing lights trigger a nasty migraine. Many are able to reduce this trigger by using glasses specifically designed for this sensitivity and are different from sunglasses. Let me share information on how others handle this trigger:https://migraine.com/search?s=light%20sensitivity. There are a number of companies who make glasses for light sensitivity, I love <inline-mention username="TheraSpecs" user-id="3751730"/>. here is their link; <a href='https://www.theraspecs.com/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://www.theraspecs.com/</a>. Let me know what you think and I'm wishing you a low pain day, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator <a href='https://Migriane.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>Migriane.com</a> Team
kstewart0602 Member
I work at a high school which equals many triggers. Sometimes I wear sunglasses, I avoid certain halls with florescent lights, I wait till the kids have gone to class before I’m in the halls and I don’t go to classes/events in the gym. 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="kstewart0602" user-id="3795781"/> I can only imagine that environment must be crawling with triggers from fluorescent lighting to loud noises and stressful situations. Good for you for seeking ways to assert control amid the chaos. Thanks for offering a great example for the rest of us to consider. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
2. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="kstewart0602" user-id="3795781"/> Oh boy! High schools are laden with triggers. Dealing with this has to be exhausting. Between the lights and scents that's a lot to handle - we're here for you!! TheraSpecs (my favorite) and a few other companies make glasses that are specifically designed to help with the sensitivity to lights. We've heard from many who have them and find them beneficial. Here is a link for TheraSpecs: <a href='https://www.theraspecs.com/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://www.theraspecs.com/</a>. How are you doing today? Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team
Tonya Henry Moderator & Contributor
I keep my house dark to try to avoid the light. I still wear a mask whenever I go out because of Covid, but also due to having Primary Immunodeficiency. The mask helps with some strong smells. I do not wear very dark glasses, but have transitions. They help a bit. If a restaurant or other place has strong smells, I leave. Starbucks can be a trigger. If I go, I generally use the app, and I pick up at the drive-thru. Take care and thanks for the video. (Tonya, moderator).
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Tonya H" user-id="4506979"/> Great tips! Thank you so much for offering them to the rest of us. You are so right that the mask can really come in handy to block out the stinky smells of the world! Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
tammygregory Member
Thanks for the video. I knew most of the info, but it is nice to be reminded I am not alone. Aspartame is a HUGE trigger for me as well. Even in tiny amounts, it is a trigger. I travel for work and smell is a big trigger. It never fails, I end up sitting near someone who has bathed in perfume. I am in my late 50s and I had my first migraine at age 17. I cannot drink any type of wine and recently I have decided the one or two mixed drinks I would have a couple of times of year simply isn't worth the headache, so I avoid all types of alcohol. The nitrates in lunch meat products are one of the triggers that took me a while to figure out. I try to avoid cold cuts and most bbq products. For me, staying hydrated is my best defense, followed by good sleep hygiene. Thanks for the video and keep the info coming. 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="tammygregory" user-id="3700063"/> Thanks so much for chiming in with your triggers. Another poster reminded us how masks can come in handy to block out strong scents. I find this helpful when traveling. Does that work for you? I know for some wearing masks can cause a migraine because it can create difficulty breathing. I'm with you on avoiding alcohol altogether. It can make for a different kind of social experience- but I'd rather that than a gigantic attack. And, ultimately, alcohol is terrible for one's health, so I try to remind myself of that anytime I feel I'm missing out on the fun. Lunch meat is huge- yes- thanks for mentioning that. I hadn't put that together as I barely eat meat, but when I went on a trip with a friend, she tore lunch meat up on our salads each day and I finally realized that's what was making my head act up. Those simple healthy basics- water, sleep, gentle exercise (if we can manage it) can do so much to help manage this condition of migraine. Great and helpful comment, Tammy! Thanks - please stay in touch. Glad you're with us. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
azreynolds Member
<inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> , Great video article! It really is amazing how different everyone is with triggers, rescues and prevention techniques. I guess that's why it's so annoying when someone gives me advice on how to stop migraines. Especially when they add that OTC meds get rid of their migraines. My tricks to avoid migraines is to actually avoid! I avoid human contact because of the perfumes and polymers added to detergents and hair products, etc. And by avoiding humans, I seem to avoid stress too. Lol. I avoid loud noises and bright lights. I wear double sunglasses by adding in the cheap wrap around glasses the eye doctors give me after they dilate my eyes. Just ask your eye doctor and they'll give you extras. I've never found food to be a trigger, but MSG will get me for sure, but since we rarely eat out, there's no risk for me there. I use positive thinking and humor to keep my spirits up and no longer deal with depression in spite of the pain. With all the prevention techniques and medications (Botox and Aimovig), plus my binasal occlusion glasses, my migraines this year went from 278 days last year down to 150!! This was in spite of the hard days before and after surgery when I was not allowed to use my supplements this year. I sincerely expect next year to improve even more because I believe the Aimovig took over a year to start improving my migraines. Hope you are well!
1. azreynolds Member
 <inline-mention username="Melissa Arnold" user-id="3827796"/> <inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> Yes, insurance companies rule the world. For me, PT was required before even getting an MRI...in spite of the fact my doctor was pretty sure it was a torn rotator cuff. PT actually hurt it more because the therapist didn't listen to me when I said a 2 lb weight was too much. So at home, instead of using weights, I used 8 oz cans, then each week moved up to a larger can. Finally I drank two Gatorade bottles, filled them with water at 16oz and continued adding 1 oz of water each week. I never could make it to two lbs. So listen to your body Holly! Don't do anything that you know is too much. I guess that goes for everything, huh?
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="azreynolds" user-id="3677307"/> - Thanks for this information, Annzie. My xray tech had the same exact shoulder issues and swore by something called red light therapy. He was convincing so I bought myself this little flashlight looking thing that puts out infrared light or some such thing. I swear, that thing has given me more relief and helped me regain more flexibility than 6 weeks of PT! I still am very tight and in a lot of pain, but I'm thinking of taking a break from paying for PT every week and hardly getting anywhere and using this thingy instead. Have you ever heard of it? Says it's good for pain anywhere. I've used it on my neck where my migraine attacks light up and the next day I had the same kind of attack I get after I get a deep tissue massage. So, I think it's doing something- maybe breaking up scar tissue or muscle tightness? Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
Amanda Workman Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> I agree with the points that you made in this video. At times there are some kinds of triggers that we can predict. I have been known to take an abortive (rescue) medication preventatively when I know that I am walking into a situation that will have migraine triggers. This works for me because I am able to stay home in my own controlled environment most of the time. For those who have to leave home to work, it may not be as easy. It was not easy for me to control my work environment when I worked outside of my home. I could not control the lighting, sounds, and smells. But I would wear sunglasses inside and thing to that effect. Now I have a pair of TheraSpec glasses so I am able to combat some of the issues with lighting by going from my sunglasses to my Theraspec glasses when I am outside of my home. I generally keep my home pretty dark. When other people are in my space, they are generally coming in behind me to turn the lights on because they do not understand my working in low-light situations. I can also be home all day without ever turning the TV on because the quiet is actually nice to me. - Amanda W (team member)
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Amanda Workman" user-id="3715820"/> Love this. Thank you so much for letting us into your world. Sounds a lot like mine! Great to hear from you. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
Andre Member
I have never been able to nail down what triggers I consistently have because other than lack of quality sleep my migraines seem to be triggered by all sorts of things or seemingly nothing at all. This latest bout of chronic migraines started in 2009 and outside of 28 consecutive days in 2016 without a migraine has been up until June 2022 been a 15-18 migraine days per month life. June 2022 I started take Aimovig and it has lessened the number of migraine to about 10 days per month and made some old triggers go away...YEAH! But other triggers such as strong smells and allergies have been more problematic as of lately, not sure what that is due to. I have been get the migraine.com newsletter for about 5 years and have read many helpful and informative articles, Thank You to everyone that contributes.
1. Andre Member
 <inline-mention username="Cheryl Picerno" user-id="3673232"/> The Aimovig has not helped with the severity or length of the migraines but Ubrelvy has helped alleviate or at least shorten a majority the migraine attacks. I still get some migraine that do not respond to medications and they are usually the worst ones, (the 9 or 10 type pain wise). Overall the medications are helping not perfectly but quite a bit.
2. Cheryl Picerno Moderator
 <inline-mention username="Andre" user-id="6635738"/>, I think any relief we get from our therapy regimens is counted as a win! I hope the medications continue to provide you with relief. Please keep in touch. Warmly, Cheryl <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
schulmanr Member
Great tips Holly for prevention and dealing with our migraines. Having a number of different types of triggers can be a challenge and make you gunshy in some social situations, but I feel it necessary to prevent head pain. Moving away from perfumes and exhaust as quickly as possible for me is key, but dealing with changing barometric pressure is unavoidable. On those days I try to anticipate and plan a light next day when it is overcast or rainy or stormy. Recently I had some minor surgery but was not allowed to take aspirin before the procedure for 10 days. I usually go to an Excedrin at the onset of pain to ward off a full blown migraine, but was unable to for this period. I typically have a sweet late night snack but during this time I made sure to NOT have any chocolate at all (even a chip) knowing that it might trigger a migraine. I went to sleep a bit earlier too. This worked and I didn't have a single migraine (luckily the weather cooperated too). Self-control is important once you know what triggers affect you. 
1. Melissa Arnold Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="schulmanr" user-id="3880029"/> Ugh, I hear you on the importance of self-control when it comes to avoiding triggers. Making sacrifices is SO hard, especially when it's something you really enjoy. It is a little easier though when you know what the consequences are. I'm sure our friends on our stomach-related sites can relate to that too. But less pain and more freedom to enjoy life is worth it. Seems like you have done an excellent job of identifying your triggers and doing what you need to do to stay well. Good work! 😀 -Melissa, <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="schulmanr" user-id="3880029"/> I'm very impressed by your self-control when it comes to sweets as I struggle with this myself as I turn to these types of foods for comfort when I'm feeling my worst even though I know they will not help and most likely make things worse. You might find this video of interest on this very topic- just published today:https://migraine.com/video/junk-food. I hope you emerged from your surgery alright and that the procedure (and its after-effects and limits on your ability to take your normal preventative medication) didn't cause an uptick in your migraine attacks. I appreciate you sharing the strategy of proactively lightening your load following an overcast day. This is a great idea so that you can clear your plate and take care of yourself if you're in bad shape with a weather-related migraine attack. It also takes the pressure off so you can worry less about your upcoming demanding schedule which may lower your stress and overall worry - thereby decreasing the chances of you having an attack in the first place. It's a brilliant idea. Thanks so much for sharing this idea with the rest of us. Wonderful to learn from you. Warmly- Holly <a href='https://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
bombus Member
Having to say no to cookies on this site and then go through it all again for individual issues - why twice?? Seriously though - people are my biggest trigger.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="bombus" user-id="3924201"/> Sorry you are encountering the repeated prompts re: cookies on our site. I'll raise this with our higher-ups and see what I can find. Thanks for letting us know. Warmly - Holly (team member) 
2. bombus Member
 <inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> Thank you so much. It is good to know we are not alone in this!
philstar22 Member
I have so many triggers at this point, and I'm still learning all of them. It seems that the biggest ones are 1. fermented/aged/cured foods, 2. stress and lack of sleep, 3. hormones.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="philstar22" user-id="8799358"/> Thanks so much for joining this discussion. It's such an important part of the migraine journey to identify our migraine triggers. I often think of us all as <a rel="noopener" href="https://migraine.com/living-migraine/how-to-identify-triggers">detectives looking for triggers</a> around every corner.That process results in our learning which triggers we have - and whether or not they are avoidable, unavoidable, or treatable. Of your list of triggers, you have a combination of all three.The foods can be avoided as long as you stay alert when eating out. So that's relatively easy though it can be a source of grief when we have to give up foods we love.Depending on the situation, stress is a trigger that is both avoidable and unavoidable. The unexpected life events that involve people getting hurt, sick, or passing away are unfortunately things we can't avoid. And those kinds of stressors will often lead to a lack of sleep. But, the kind of stress we encounter at work, due to politics, or an ongoing family dynamic- can perhaps be managed and potentially lessened through <a rel="noopener" href="https://migraine.com/living-migraine/stress-types-trigger">self-care techniques.</a>Lack of sleep can be both an avoidable and unavoidable trigger as it can sometimes be managed through <a rel="noopener" href="https://migraine.com/living-migraine/tips-for-better-sleep-hygiene">natural steps for better sleep hygiene</a>. Other times, when we fall into a pattern in which we are finding we consistently cannot fall or stay asleep (due to stress, or perhaps migraine pain), it may be time to talk to our doctor about medical interventions as there are some <a rel="noopener" href="https://migraine.com/living-migraine/insomnia-experience-tips">prescriptions available </a>that can assist with sleep. There are things like Melatonin (a more natural supplement) as well as Trazadone (prescription) that might be tried, among others. Lack of sleep is an important one to get right because it causes a toxic cycle- as it will trigger a migraine attack which will cause lack of sleep, etc.Finally, hormones can be a major unavoidable dramatic trigger for many. In my case, it is the fluctuation of the hormones that wreaks havoc, resulting in an attack. I was prescribed a continuous birth control pill to regulate the hormonal shifts and this helped me a great deal. May be worth discussing with your doctor.I hope some of this information may prove useful for you. We continue to be so glad you are with us. Here for you- thinking of you - grateful to you. Warmly - Holly (team member)
James W Member
My biggest potentially avoidable triggers are aged cheese (especially cheddar) and red wine. Unavoidable ones are lack of sleep and stress. 
1. James W Member
 <inline-mention username="Tonya Henry" user-id="4506979"/> My dog is a border collie - black lab mix. She's very sweet. I don't take anything to fall asleep because I fall asleep just fine. I wake up earlier than I want to, though, because of my bladder. The joys of getting old! 
2. Tonya Henry Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="James W" user-id="6198882"/> awwww. She sounds like a beautiful dog. I have never had a big dog. We did have a Boston Terrier for 13 years though. How long has she been in the family? Bladders and aging!! I see. I do get up to go to the bathroom every night, at least once. I guess it is part bladder issues possibly because I am almost 50, but, I am also on IV nutrition nightly. Your issue and mine definitely affects staying asleep. Do you ever sleep through the whole night? Hopefully, tonight is not bad for you. (Tonya, team member).
mrst53 Member
Msg and red wine are my worst triggers
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="mrst53" user-id="3806363"/> That is very interesting to hear. Sounds like you are clear about what to avoid in terms of red wine and MSG. It can sometimes be surprising how the ingredients in foods that are triggers for us can lurk in other foods. Have you heard about the histamine trigger? <a rel="noopener" href="https://migraine.com/migraine-triggers/alcohol">Red wine has a lot of histamine</a> in it. We hear often of people in our community being triggered by <a rel="noopener" href="https://migraine.com/blog/the-migraine-food-trigger-youve-probably-never-heard-of">histamines</a>. It might be worth your time to do a little research on that front in case it is a trigger for you. Have you ever tried an <a rel="noopener" href="https://migraine.com/blog/elimination-diet-foods-to-eat-foods-to-avoid">elimination diet</a>? Glad you're with us. Warmly - Holly (team member)
shellybrothers Member
Hormones. Anything that affects my hormones, whether it be glucose, stress, heat, dehydration. Also, too much movement and action. I have vertigo so I have to move slow when Im doing dishes or cooking. I have to limit driving because when I stop and put it in park, or other cars are moving past me, its a trigger...my migraines have now lead into non epileptic seizures. 
1. shellybrothers Member
 <inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> Good evening, do you have the links to migraine specialists in my area? 65583 
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="shellybrothers" user-id="9908351"/> Hi dear- thanks for writing. I hope you had a good birthday- were you able to squeeze any celebrating out between the pain? I wanted to respond to your question re: why I lost my disability. We have an <a rel="noopener" href="https://migraine.com/forums/disability-benefits-lost-won">entire series</a> regarding my process of losing my disability and winning it back if you are interested. But, in a nutshell, I am on both private insurance (long-term disability - LTD- through my last employer) and Social Security Disability. My LTD insurer arbitrarily reevaluated my case and made me see an independent doctor the company hired to find reasons why I shouldn't stay on the plan. They had me surveilled six times and "caught" me driving to the grocery store once and letting my dog into my side yard once. That I was able to do both tasks while not actively vomiting was his basis for claiming I was ready to return to full-time employment. I fought for a year (with the help of a lawyer) and regained coverage. Re: your request for a migraine specialist in your area- we have a couple of <a rel="noopener noreferrer ugc" href="https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/find-a-doctor/">resources</a>- <a rel="noopener noreferrer ugc" href="https://headaches.org/resources/healthcare-provider-finder/">here's another</a>. On quick glance, it looks like there are some in Springfield. But take a look and see what you find. These lists are not comprehensive so do your own due diligence on these doctors- search for reviews, etc. It's also important to <a rel="noopener" href="https://migraine.com/living-migraine/evaluating-doctor-patient-relationship-right-fit">carefully evaluate the practices</a> you visit to ensure there's a good fit between you and the doctor you are seeing for migraine as this partnership is key both in giving you support and treatment, and in securing and maintaining disability. Please circle back with any questions or need for clarification. We are 100% here for you. Sending compassion and love your way. Warmly - Holly (team member)
shellybrothers Member
Thank you Holly. I am on Topamax now, along with blood pressure meds, and the neurop put me on 400 mlg of riboflavin for 4 months @
1. shellybrothers Member
 <inline-mention username="Tonya Henry" user-id="4506979"/> thank you! I had a pretty chill birthday. My 14 year old son bought me dinner at a Mexican restaurant. I'm still driving but I prioritize my drive time. The sun reflecting and stopping at stop lights while the other cars are moving can be a trigger. The restaurant was just a few minutes away. I put my face on and spent some much needed time with my Son. It was wonderful. My brain only flipped on me a couple times today but it didnt stay. So win for me. It's nice to meet such sweet and likeminded folks on here. It's nice to have support and to know that I'm not losing my mind lol. Thank you again for the birthday wishes. 
2. Tonya Henry Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="shellybrothers" user-id="9908351"/> you are so welcome!! I am glad to hear that you had a very nice birthday. Also glad to hear that you did not have to go far. That was sweet of your 14 yr old son. I know it made you a proud mom, and, so special to your son too. I hope the end is just as wonderful, providing a symptom-free night for you. (Tonya, team member).
Prettymomma Member
Hi Holly! Loved your video on triggers. They are so hard to avoid! In fact even in my own home that I have many things set in place to avoid them ,yet, it happens. For me it is lights, sun, noise, using my brain too much, and talking for extended period. There are other triggers I have but these are some of the most common. As I stated I have a lot of things set in place at home so I can avoid triggers, but out in public it is all so spontaneous. Like you mentioned, a noisy truck goes by, or the ambulance, or maybe it is too sunny out, or at night the headlights and so forth... All I can do when out in public is if I encounter this.. I try to get home as soon as I can and take a migraine shot, put on an ice pack, and go to bed. Thank you for all you do Holly! Take care😀 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Prettymomma" user-id="7002652"/> Hi dear! It's always so wonderful to hear from you. Your post reminded me of a number of things- I always resonate with what you share. Yes- on overusing the brain. Yes - on talking for a long period. Yes- for the random unavoidable things in the world! Just this morning, I was driving my dog to a local trail for our morning walk and we got stuck behind a stinky truck. At the next stop light, I somehow got trapped next to him and behind an even stinkier loud truck and the light was eternally long. I thought my dog and I would pass out from the fumes. By the time I got to the park, I felt awful. Such a shame when we encounter a trigger that trips us up like that and messes with a well-intended experience. If I'm honest, another component/trigger I encounter is my own stubbornness and inability to speak up for myself! For instance, while I know the best thing for myself this morning would've been to do exactly what you suggested (to get home as quick as possible to take my meds and be quiet), I wanted my dog to get a good walk in and my mom was waiting for a phone call from me. So, I overextended myself by talking/listening and kept with my plan rather than to acknowledge my increasing pain and symptoms and get home. So then I spend the next four hours trying to tamp down an attack that I still haven't successfully quieted. Do you have a hard time pulling the plug when you're already in the midst of plans? It's interesting, I've never thought of myself as being a trigger until this minute! What do you think? Perhaps it's worth a future article... Lots of love and gratitude to you for our thought-provoking exchanges! Warmly - Holly (team member)
Prettymomma Member
Lol! Yes you are right I am a trigger for myself as well! I absolutely have a hard time pulling the plug when in the midst of plans almost EVERY TIME! I really hate letting people down. I think we are like 2 peas in a pod! Lots of love and gratitude to you too!😀
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Prettymomma" user-id="7002652"/> Thanks for being an inspiration for a new article as well as a lovely friend- so glad you are here. I agree- we are two peas in a pod! All love, my dear. Warmly - Holly (team member)
sunpadre Member
 My main triggers are histamines, lack of sleep, and stress. I always carry or make sure I have access to Excedrin tension headache, Tylenol PM, Sumatriptan, and Benadryl. I can usually prevent, stop, or get rid of a migraine with these.
1. sunpadre Member
 <inline-mention username="Melissa Arnold" user-id="3827796"/> I've seen that list before but haven't changed my eating habits. Knowing which foods contribute to migraines though help me figure out if something is worth eating/drinking at that moment and if yes, I make sure I have the right meds with me. I just downloaded that list again for further review. It's definitely a work in progress!
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="sunpadre" user-id="3895685"/> Love that you said this is a work-in-progress. It definitely is that for all of us. An ever-evolving discovery process of testing this and that to determine what works and what doesn't. And our triggers can at times be a moving target. It's important to give ourselves grace along the way for making the effort to identify our triggers and, as some have mentioned here- we then may sometimes choose to expose ourselves to one because it's meaningful to us (even though we know it likely will result in an attack). Living within the confines of our triggers can be trying - sometimes we must live a little: <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/pushing-through-limitations' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/pushing-through-limitations</a>. Glad you're with us. Thank you for sharing some of your journey with us. Warmly - Holly (team member)
cheribear Member
I appreciate all the comments from this forum and sympathize with you all. My worst trigger is out of my control- barometric pressure change. Unfortunately, I live in an area where the barometric pressure is constantly in flux and where the weather has extreme humidity and temps. I did the food elimination diet a little over a decade ago and aspartame and Sucralose are my biggest triggers food wise with a close following from wine, aged cheeses, fermented foods, and cured meats. I taught French for many years and so now I only eat a little brie when I already have a migraine. I now avoid alcohol too. Used to love live music but concerts and the noise in live music venues is a trigger now along with flashing and /or fluorescent lights.I keep my home pretty quiet and dark now often. Scrolling too much and too much reading and scrolling on computer is also a trigger due to a tbi but I still love to voraciously read and research. Botox shots help me for the first six weeks but they usually wear off after six to eight weeks sending me from about 3 days of migraines a week to 5-6 days for that third really bad migraine month. One thing that has helped somewhat is Qulipta. it doesn't cause as much gastrointestinal issues as the cgrps for me. I want from workaholic to being forced to retire early. I still try to find meaning by helping others in small ways when I can. I have really appreciated all your support articles and forums.
1. Tonya Henry Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="cheribear" user-id="3700654"/> hi there!! First, thank you for the detailed comments. I am so sorry that you go through a lot with your migraines and related symptoms. I do understand though. For me, the sensitivity and all the issues with barometric pressure, are the worst. I hate that you have those and more also. A lot of us have issues any time there are pressure changes. Have you ever tried the earplugs that can help with that? I wanted to share this with you as it relates to barometric pressure changes: <a href='https://migraine.com/migraine-types/seasonal-migraine' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/migraine-types/seasonal-migraine</a>. Do you have sinus issues when this occurs? This next link is about sensitivities and how driving can cause issues because of the lights and shadows. I see that you have issues with different lights too. <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/driving-is-a-challenge' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/driving-is-a-challenge</a>. Again, I thank you for commenting and hope that you find these articles of some interest. Have a wonderful rest of your week. (Tonya, team member).
2. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 <inline-mention username="cheribear" user-id="3700654"/> You're not alone in living with migraine attacks triggered by changes in the barometric pressure. This week has been awful where I live as well and to be honest I'm struggling. <inline-mention username="Tonya Henry" user-id="4506979"/> has given you wonderful resources I hope you don't mind if I add a few more here! 1) <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/triggered-by-weather-this-medication-may-help' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/triggered-by-weather-this-medication-may-help/</a> 2) <a href='https://migraine.com/video/magnesium-weather-triggered-attacks' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/video/magnesium-weather-triggered-attacks/</a> 3) <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/diamox-for-weather-related-attacks' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/diamox-for-weather-related-attacks</a> I've also found WeatherX ear plugs to be beneficial. They have app that can alert us to changes in the pressure so we can prepare as much as possible for upcoming shifts. Here is their website; <a href='https://www.weatherx.com/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://www.weatherx.com/</a>. As far as Botox goes, I wonder if having a conversation with your provider would be beneficial to see if they can get pre authorization to have your Botox done every 10 weeks instead of 12. Depending on insurance coverage I've heard from others who find this helpful. I hope you keep us posted and I'm sending you wishes for a low pain day, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator (team member)
Jon B. Zachman Member
Cigarette smoke (really any kind of smoke) + strong perfumes are among my triggers, and I often encounter them outside an office building entrance or in an elevator. When I see a smoker out front, I will take a deep breath, hold it, and walk quickly into the building; I also take the stairs, if I feel up to it. A second trigger is florescent lights, which I routinely experience in most dr offices' waiting rooms and patient rooms, including at my neurologist's practice--of all places, right? The kind nurses will turn off the lights while I'm waiting for the doctor. As a permanent solution I've requested they install alternative lights or dimmable lights. Until then, I continue to wear a baseball cap and dark glasses like many others. 
1. Nancy Harris Bonk Moderator
 Hi <inline-mention username="Jon B. Zachman" user-id="6740915"/> Thank you for joining the conversation and sharing your experiences with us. You're not alone in having cigarette smoke, scents and lights trigger nasty attacks. To help combat unwanted odors, I use (when I remember to carry it) a hand held diffuser I'll share below. It opens and has a compartment where you can put a cotton swab containing a scent you find pleasant to help block out the offending odor. Won't totally eliminate the smell, but I find it helpful. Lights are problematic for many of us. My old headache doctor had the light lowered as he mostly served migraine/headache patients and it was a pleasure to be in that office. The nurse in my current doctor's office asks if I want the lights lowered and I thankfully always say yes. I don't blame you one bit for wearing your glasses and baseball cap. Are your dark glasses specific for light sensitivity? There are glasses designed specifically to help with light triggers? Let me share that with you here; 1) <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/relief-light-sensitivity' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/relief-light-sensitivity</a> 2) <a href='https://migraine.com/video/secret-manage-light-sensitivity' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/video/secret-manage-light-sensitivity</a> 3) <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/photophobia-dealing-painful-light-sensitivity' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/photophobia-dealing-painful-light-sensitivity</a> Please let me know what you think and I'm sending you wishes for a low pain weekend, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator (team member) <img src="/content/images/2024/11/22/4375b0fb4d3f1789d128538758d67323_medium.jpg" alt="hand held difuser" class="uploaded-image"/>
2. Jon B. Zachman Member
 <inline-mention username="Nancy Harris Bonk" user-id="3845796"/> Thanks for sharing the three additional resources. There is comfort in knowing you aren't the only one facing light sensitivity. I installed black-out curtains in the bedroom many years ago and purchased special eye glasses to wear inside. I also appreciate learning about new strategies from others who face the same challenges and suffer from migraines.
LadyLynda07 Member
Loud noise, lack of sleep, stress amongst a few other things. 
1. Tonya Henry Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="LadyLynda07" user-id="9900768"/> hi there. I second all of that!! Each thing that you listed here, are some of my triggers. Sometimes we can avoid the places that have loud noise. It can be hard to avoid other triggers. Do you have any tips of what you do to help with these triggers? (Tonya, team member).