A migraine can cause a pulsating sensation or throbbing pain, often experienced on either side of the head. The other symptoms associated with migraine include extreme sensitivity to sound and light, nausea, and vomiting. It can impact your daily life and the pain might last for several days. Here are some of the common triggers of migraine:

1. Odors

Some odors have an adverse effect on people who have a migraine problem. Some odors that can trigger a migraine attack are those of cigarette smoke, perfume, cleaning products, paint thinners, car exhaust, and gasoline. Clinical studies have shown that up to half of the people who suffer from migraines have high sensitivity to odors. The effect of odors is not consistent, and many people may not experience migraine headaches due to continued exposure to the same odor. The issue is caused because odors increase the activation of the specific pain receptors in the brain. The complete mechanism behind migraine occurrence is still not fully understood. However, it is well-known that the regions in the body that are directly involved with migraine attacks are the ones that also process odors.

2. Dehydration

Dehydration is a common trigger for migraines. Anyone who has a migraine problem should drink enough water and keep the body hydrated. It is easy to forget drinking water because the basic necessity of the body for water is far less than the suggested quantity. Thus, it is suggested to take a short break every couple of hours and ask yourself whether you need water.

3. Computer overuse

This particular trigger is extremely common and impacts more than half of the people who experience migraine pain. Take short breaks every once in a while when you are on the computer. You can also relax your eyes by doing some exercises. such as focusing on something that is at a distance.

4. Diet

The right diet is extremely important to minimize migraine headaches. Some foods should be completely avoided, as they aggravate the condition. Usually, foods that contain histamine and monosodium glutamate (MSG) are not advised to be eaten. In addition, other foods that one should avoid or limit include chocolate, cheese, and other dairy products. Caffeine, although considered a source of relief from migraine by some, should be avoided in general to keep the condition at bay.

5. Light

Natural light can prove to be more harmful than odors. The phenomenon in which one becomes sensitive to light is known as photophobia. It is one of the common criteria doctors use to diagnose migraine. All kinds of light, including natural light as well as flickering bulbs, are damaging for migraine patients. Thus, a migraine patient might find it difficult to be out in the sun or even in an office environment—thinking the migraine may kick in because of light.