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Understanding Migraine -- Prevention

How Can You Prevent Migraines?

In addition to prophylactic (preventive) medications, you can help prevent migraines by regularly getting enough sleep, avoiding foods that trigger migraines in some people, and learning behavioral techniques shown to be effective in preventing migraine episodes or lessening their duration or severity.

Food and drinks that are commonly thought to worsen migraines include chocolate, red wine, MSG, meats with sodium nitrates, aged cheese, wheat, oranges, eggs, tea and coffee, milk, corn syrup, and yeast. Reducing or stopping the intake of these foods may stop migraines from occurring in some people.

Recommended Related to Migraines/Headaches

Tips for Avoiding Migraine Triggers

Many everyday things can trigger (cause) a migraine headache. Depending on your sensitivity, it might be red wine, caffeine withdrawal, emotional stress, or skipped meals. To take control of migraines, you must understand your migraine pattern. The first step is tracking your migraines by using a headache diary. Make notes of activities before -- or when -- a migraine occurred. What were you eating? What were you doing? How much sleep did you get the night before? Did anything stressful or important...

Read the Tips for Avoiding Migraine Triggers article > >

WebMD Medical Reference

Reviewed by Neil Lava, MD on March 09, 2012
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