What Causes Migraines to Change?

As life throws you curveballs, your migraines can change. They may become more severe, more frequent, or feel different over time. There are several reasons this might happen. Lifestyle changes can alter the types of headaches you get. Stress contributes to migraines. So when stress increases, your migraines can change.

Sleep patterns and diet may have a similar effect. And if you move to a city where the weather is different, your migraines may change too. Age is another factor that might bring about a shift. Women going through hormonal ups and downs caused by pregnancy and menopause can see a change in their migraines too.

Try keeping a headache diary. Include when you get it, how long it lasts, and what the weather was like. This could help you understand what triggers your migraines.

But if you start noticing migraines popping up at odd times, like while exercising, having sex, or coughing and sneezing, call your doctor. But if you have a sudden and severe headache known as a thunderclap headache, you should go to the emergency room. A thunderclap headache is a medical emergency.