Stress-Related Migraines

Since stress is a known migraine trigger, reducing (and, where possible, eliminating) the things that cause you stress may reduce the severity or frequency of your migraines. Although it isn't possible to remove all stressors in life, techniques can help you respond to stress better. Some tips for managing stress-related migraines include practicing relaxation techniques, getting adequate sleep each night, eating a healthy diet, and getting plenty of exercise.

 

An Overview of Stress-Related Migraines

Stress is one of the most common triggers of migraines (see Migraine Triggers). In fact, in one recently-published study, up to 80 percent of people listed stress and anxiety as triggers of their migraine headaches.
 
Events like getting married, having a baby, or moving to a new home are all sources of stress. But migraine research studies have found that it is the day-to-day stresses, not these major life changes, that are most often linked to migraines. Juggling our many roles -- such as taking care of children, having a career, and handling financial pressures -- can be daily stresses for men and women.
 

Suggestions for Stress-Related Migraines

Like most people, you probably find it extremely difficult to remove all stresses from your life. Yet, it is still important to learn your particular stresses. Then you can come up with ways to reduce the stresses that you can control. And for stresses that you can't control, these approaches also allow you to think of things you can do ahead of time to help cope with them.
 
Following are some things that you can do in your daily life to help decrease your overall stress:
 
  • Getting regular physical activity
  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Practicing relaxation techniques
  • Getting adequate amounts of sleep.
     
Participating in a stress management program may also be helpful for people who suffer from stress-related migraines.
(Stress-Related Migraines Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD