Top 11 Causes of Migraines You Should Know

Migraines can seriously disrupt daily life. Characterized by tingling in limbs, blurry vision, spots, flashes of light, dizziness, and strange smells, they are surprisingly common—affecting about 12% of the global population. Ranking as the sixth most disabling condition worldwide, migraines often come with nausea, vomiting, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound.

Typically, migraines cause intense throbbing pain on one side of the head lasting hours to days, interfering with normal activities. While the exact cause remains uncertain, factors like brain chemical imbalances are believed to be involved. Here are key triggers linked to migraine episodes:

Genetics: Family history plays a significant role; if relatives suffer from migraines, your risk increases.

Age: Many experience their first migraines in adolescence, with frequency peaking in their 30s before decreasing.

Hormonal Fluctuations: Changes in estrogen levels, especially during menstruation, pregnancy, or due to birth control, can provoke migraines in women.

Gender: Women are three times more likely than men to experience migraines.

Brain Chemistry: Drops in serotonin can activate nerves like the trigeminal nerve, releasing pain-causing chemicals.

Skipping Meals: Missing meals leads to low blood sugar, which can trigger headaches.

Alcohol & Caffeine: Excessive intake of alcohol and high-caffeine products may induce migraines.

Sensory Overload: Bright lights, loud noises, and strong odors can precipitate attacks.

Physical Exertion: Excessive activity or intense exercise may lead to migraines when overdone.

Sleep Irregularities: Both oversleeping and sleep deprivation can be triggers.

Medication Overuse: Using migraine medications excessively can cause rebound headaches.

By avoiding these triggers and adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing migraines can become more feasible, allowing sufferers to live more comfortably with the condition.