Migraine causes and triggers
The exact cause of migraine is unknown. However, it is believed to be the result of abnormal brain activity; this affects some people more than others on account of a genetic predisposition and may be ‘triggered” by a range of environmental, emotional, physical and dietary factors 4.
Migraineurs (people who suffer with migraine) may often have specific triggers, or a combination of triggers, which can be quite variable, involving changes in the internal or external environment.
Internal triggers include 4:
- Stress
- Dehydration
- A missed meal
- Individual foodstuffs
- Hormonal changes around menstruation
External triggers include 4:
- A thundery day
- Bright winter sun
- Loud noise
- Strong smells particularly from petrochemicals.