Common Migraine Triggers and What Helps

Migraines are more than just bad headaches, they can cause throbbing pain, light sensitivity, nausea, and fatigue that disrupt daily life. If you’re asking, “What causes migraines?” the answer is often a combination of triggers that affect the nervous system.

Common Migraine Triggers

• Stress. Emotional stress is one of the most frequent migraine drivers.

• Sleep changes. Too little or too much sleep can set off a migraine.

• Diet. Caffeine, alcohol, processed meats, and aged cheeses are common triggers.

• Dehydration. Even mild dehydration can lead to headaches or migraines.

• Hormonal changes. Many women notice migraines around their menstrual cycle.

• Posture strain. Hours at a computer or phone can create muscle tension that contributes to migraines.

What Helps

• Stress management. Deep breathing, yoga, or meditation reduce the nervous system’s stress response.

• Healthy sleep habits. Aim for 7–9 hours per night on a consistent schedule.

• Hydration. Keep a water bottle with you and avoid skipping meals.

• Posture correction. Take breaks to stretch, set up an ergonomic workstation, and strengthen postural muscles.

• Chiropractic care. Adjustments restore motion in the spine, reduce tension, and support nervous system balance, helping prevent migraine flare-ups.

When to See a Doctor
Seek medical care if migraines are sudden, severe, or come with symptoms like weakness, confusion, or vision changes.

“Migraines usually aren’t caused by just one thing. Identifying and managing your personal triggers — while keeping the spine and nervous system balanced — makes the biggest difference.” — Dr. Kaden Hurst