Many migraine patients recognize specific triggers to their headaches. Migraine patients are more sensitive to certain substances in their foods and environments as well as changes to their routine. Too much or too little sleep, changes in exercise routines, and processed foods can worsen migraine headaches. Heavy, flowery scents or cigarette smoke are frequent triggers. Keeping a headache journal can help identify migraine triggers and eliminate them. Elimination diets that target artificial sweeteners, food dyes, chocolate, processed meats, and/or certain alcohols can help find food triggers. In general, migraine patients are encouraged to eat a diet consisting of whole foods, stay hydrated, avoid caffeine, have a regular sleep schedule, and exercise regularly.
