Migraine is a recurring headache disorder that can cause severe throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head. While the exact cause of migraines is unknown, several factors can trigger or exacerbate migraines, including stress, certain foods and beverages, irregular sleep patterns, and hormonal fluctuations. Identifying and avoiding these triggers can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. If the condition still persists, it is recommended to consult an expert.

Foods that can trigger migraine
Although common in adults, children can also suffer from occasional migraines under certain conditions. Certain unhealthy food items also trigger migraines. So, here are seven common foods that can trigger migraines:

• Chocolate
  Chocolate is preferred by children and adults alike. However, chocolate contains caffeine and beta-phenylethylamine, active compounds that trigger migraines.
• Cheese
  Some cheese categories, such as cheddar, brie, and blue cheese, contain high levels of tyramine, which can trigger migraines.
• Citrus fruits
  Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits contain high levels of citric acid and can cause migraines in some people.
• Caffeine
  Caffeine can relieve pain. But excessive caffeine intake or sudden withdrawal from caffeine can trigger migraines in some individuals.
• Processed foods
  These items contain nitrates, monosodium glutamate (MSG), and aspartame that trigger migraines in some people.
• Cured meats
  Deli meats like bacon, sausages, ham, among other cut and cured meats, contain high levels of preservatives called nitrates that cause migraines.
• Nuts
  Peanuts, walnuts, and other types of nuts contain high levels of tyramine, which can trigger migraines in some people.

It is essential to identify the foods triggering migraines and avoid them. Keeping a food diary can help identify such triggers. Additionally, incorporating more fresh fruits and vegetables in daily meal plans can help reduce the severity of migraines.

Strong odors that can trigger migraine
Besides certain foods, strong odors can also trigger or exacerbate migraines in some people. Here are common smells that can trigger migraines:

• Perfume
  Strong perfumes or colognes can trigger a migraine attack. The chemicals in these products can be overwhelming for some, leading to headaches and migraines in some cases.
• Cleaning products
  Pungent smells or odors from cleaning products such as bleach, ammonia, and other chemicals can also cause migraines.
• Motor vehicle exhaust
  A motor exhaust emits particles that pollute the air. If one inhales the polluted air in the open, the particles can irritate the sensory organs and cause migraines.
• Paint and solvents
  Paints can beautify the wall of a building or structure. However, the strong smell of paint and solvents can be a migraine trigger for some individuals.
• Gasoline
  The gasoline smell can be a potent migraine trigger for some people. 
• Strong foods
  Foods with strong odors, such as fish, garlic, and onions, can trigger migraines in some individuals.

If one suffers from chronic migraines, it is important to seek treatment from a healthcare provider who treats chronic migraines. They can work with the patients to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include prescriptions, lifestyle changes, and other therapies to help manage the symptoms. 

Home remedies for migraine
Migraines can be a debilitating condition that negatively impacts daily life. While over-the-counter and prescription can help manage migraines, one can also opt for several other home remedies to improve overall health. 

• Cold Compress
  Applying a cold compress to the head and neck can help relieve migraine pain and reduce inflammation. You can use a cold pack, a bag of frozen vegetables, or a cold towel to provide relief.
• Magnesium-rich foods
  Magnesium is an essential mineral that can help prevent migraines. You can increase your magnesium intake by taking supplements, eating magnesium-rich foods like dark leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, or having an Epsom salt bath.
• Ginger
  Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce migraine pain. You can consume ginger by drinking ginger tea, eating raw ginger, or taking ginger supplements.
• Lavender oil
  Lavender oil is known for its calming properties and can help reduce stress and tension, common migraine triggers. You can apply it topically to the temples and forehead.
• Yoga and meditation
  Light exercises like yoga and meditation can help reduce stress and tension, common migraine triggers. Regular yoga and meditation practice can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
• Stay hydrated
  Dehydration is a common migraine trigger. Drinking plenty of water and electrolyte-rich beverages can help prevent migraines.
• Sleep
  Lack of sleep or changes in sleep patterns can trigger migraines. Getting enough sleep and establishing a regular sleep schedule can help prevent the condition and curb the effects of the symptoms.

Migraine hotspots
While migraine can occur in any part of the country, some cities are more prevalent than others. Here are five cities that are considered migraine hotspots:

Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati boasts a poor to moderate air quality index and particulate matter readings that are 2.7 times the World Health Organization guidelines for breathable air quality. The pollution gets worse during the summer months, triggering migraines.

Madison, Wisconsin
Madison is one of the few cities that boasts the worst score for lifestyle factors, including daily nutrition, exercise, and stress that directly impacts the incidence of migraine attacks.

Little Rock-North Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock secures a third spot solely due to a flurry of environmental factors. Changing climates, reduced crop yields, and weather damage are all trigger factors for persistent headaches with varying levels of severity in Little Rock.

Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville is another city that witnesses severe environmental and weather-related degradation in the quality of life. Abrupt changes in temperature trigger migraine attacks at an alarming rate. Poor nutrition and improper coping mechanisms all contribute to these headaches.

St. Louis, Missouri
Dramatic changes in weather and temperature trigger an increase or decrease in barometric pressure, thus causing headaches. The alarming frequency of weather changes is one of the reasons why St. Louis is in the top five spots for worst cities that trigger migraine attacks.

To sum up, migraines can be triggered by various factors varying from person to person. While common triggers include stress, changes in weather, and certain foods or drinks, other factors such as air pollution, noise, and extreme temperatures can also play a role. Therefore, it is essential to identify and manage the triggers, such as avoiding triggers when possible, practicing stress-reducing techniques, and seeking treatment when needed.